Hamilton names ideal replacement as Ferrari upgrades break cover - RacingNews365 Review

Hamilton's replacement

It is the biggest question in the Formula 1 driver market at the moment: Who replaces Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes?

Hamilton announced he was off to Ferrari in February, leaving boss Toto Wolff the best part of a year to find a replacement for 2025. 

Plenty of names have swirled around, including that of Alex Albon and Fernando Alonso, who have since committed to Williams and Aston Martin, respectively. 

Hamilton himself has kept his powder relatively dry - but has named who he would opt for if it was his decision...

READ MORE: Hamilton names preferred replacement for Mercedes F1 seat

Ferrari's new upgrades

McLaren showed its hand with its upgrade package last time out in Miami, and whilst Red Bull has a sizeable package of its own, Ferrari has brought a big raft of updates to Imola. 

Check out the first images below - with RacingNews365's technical analyst Paolo Filisetti preparing an analysis that will be available tomorrow.

READ MORE: In photos: Ferrari's big upgrades for home Emilia Romagna GP

Verstappen's surprise challenger

It sometimes looks too easy for Max Verstappen at the front of Formula 1, especially as he's taken 38 wins from the last 50 races since ground-effects were re-introduced ahead of 2022.

Speaking candidly, the Red Bull driver has described how he does not need validation from out-side sources and offered an interesting challenger to his own domination...

READ MORE: Verstappen reveals surprise challenger in recent F1 domination

Williams has multiple options

Another big question in the driver market is who partners Albon at Williams - with incumbent Logan Sargeant facing an uphill task to stay on for a third season. 

Boss James Vowles has spoken honestly about the situation he is facing when it comes to selecting Albon's team-mate, and has a trio of drivers on his shortlist.

READ MORE: Williams confirm three options for second F1 seat