'He would take that chance as Hamilton's successor 100 percent'

Hamilton on early retirement?

Since he lost the world title to Max Verstappen in Abu Dhabi, hardly anything has been heard from the seven-time world champion. The Briton would not even return next season, so the rumor goes. If Hamilton indeed does not return next season, the question is who will take his place at Mercedes.

Vettel as Hamilton's replacement

One of the names going around as a possible successor to Hamilton at Mercedes is that of Sebastian Vettel. Ralf Schumacher thinks at Sky Sports that the German driver would seize that opportunity with both hands. "Of course, if he gets the chance to join this team, he would take it one hundred percent," he said.

According to Schumacher it helps that Vettel has gained experience with the Mercedes engine at Aston Martin, which in terms of concept of the car also resembles the Mercedes. The former Formula driver thinks that the departure of Otmar Szafnauer at Aston Martin does not help either. "Vettel and he were a good team," he said.

Hamilton not yet left

Whether or not Vettel is a real option for Mercedes, the fact remains that Hamilton is still officially a Mercedes driver in 2022. It remains to be seen whether Hamilton will indeed retire early. Should it be the case, Vettel is certainly not the only option for Mercedes. "Toto Wolff has some other talents behind him."