Wolff: Priority is Hamilton, not Alonso

Fernando Alonso hasn't even gotten behind the wheel of la McLaren MP4-30 that speculations point to a replacement of Lewis Hamilton by the Asturian at Mercedes. These rumors took root with the words of Toto Wolff, the executive director of Mercedes Motorsport, who had spoken of the new McLaren driver as an alternative.

Toto wolff did not change his mind but the Austrian set things straight in an interview with Sport Bild. “It’s always good to be prepared for all eventualities. Alternatives are always important, but they are alternatives, not priorities. »

Lewis Hamilton's contract extension at Mercedes F1 is still expected, with the latter ending at the end of the year. “We haven’t signed anything because we haven’t yet taken the time to discuss the subject,” added Toto Wolff. “We didn’t want to distract Lewis at the end of the season. He has now returned from vacation and we will discuss this soon. I can say that both parties want to continue. For us, Lewis and Nico (Rosberg) form the best crew and we have no reason to change them. »

Lewis Hamilton will take the wheel of the Mercedes W06 Hybrid during the winter tests in Jerez (Spain) held from February 1 to 4. The presentation of the car will take place this Sunday.