On may 12th 2020, Ferrari announced that they were parting ways at the end of the season with 4 time world champion Sebastian Vettel. Both parties were going through a rough patch, while Vettel wasn’t happy with his salary and contract and had been outshined as the team’s number 1 driver by the young Charles Leclerc. Speculation suggested that the likes of Carlos Sainz or Daniel Ricciardo were to take Vettel’s place alongside Leclerc.
Sainz’s first podium in formula one, came in Brazil 2019 a first for the team as well, since Australia 2014. A stellar season with McLaren landed him a spot in Ferraris 2021 car ahead of Riccardo. Who made a jump from Renault to fill in Sainz’s spot in McLaren alongside 20 year old Lando Norris. The ripple effect of Vettel’s departure now leaves Renault with a vacant seat, where a possible return for Fernando Alonso is being suggested.
Three seats at the top teams also remain unconfirmed with Lewis Hamilton, Valtteri Bottas and Alex Albon out of contract at the end of this season. It’s mostly likely that Lewis sticks with Mercedes for 2021, but the real question is who will come besides him, after the vacancy of Vettel, Mercedes have a large variety to pick from. Red bull still unclear on their second driver. Max and Leclerc have agreed to long term commitments announced earlier this year.
Renault sticks with their 2020 choice of Esteban Ocon, Williams with George Russell, and racing point with Checo Perez. The other teams have to yet confirmed any drivers.
Writer: Vansh Rana
18/06/2020
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