After enjoying an almost unchallenged monopoly over the drivers’ championship for the better part of the last decade, the new FIA regulations and the Red Bull dominance that followed suit finally gave Lewis Hamilton a harsh reality check. On the other end of the spectrum, Fernando Alonso was jumping ships, took a two-year hiatus, and came back in search of his 3rd championship. Enter 2023, and the Spaniard finally sees his fate turn, landing two podium finishes in as many races. The recent turn of events in the former McLaren teammate-rivals begs the question- is it more about the driver or about the car?

To many, the newfound success of Aston Martin came as a surprise. That was because the team was struggling ever since it rebranded itself from Racing Point. Their troubles grew even more with the advent of the ground effect regulations last year. However, Lawrence Stroll never wanted to see his team settle in the midfield. The addition of Alonso to the team was a move in that direction to excel.

Talking about the fate of the two experienced F1 drivers in the latest episode of the VF1 podcast, co-host VF Castro said, “It is the car. You could be an incredible driver and just not have the power. Look at Lewis right now. We know what Lewis is capable of doing. Mercedes just can’t do it and that’s putting Lewis in a very interesting spot because he’s not used to being in the position that Mercedes is putting him in.”

“Likewise, Fernando Alonso isn’t used to being in that position either because he is used to having sub-par cars. So, you’re seeing what these optimized drivers who are just pure drivers, they want it, it’s in their blood. And you’re seeing that now materialize with Alonso, and you’re seeing that kind of fade away with Hamilton.”

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Following the forgettable result in Bahrain, Hamilton talked about the team not listening to him on his feedback about the car. Castro, however, feels that Mercedes needs him now more than ever and will have to do whatever he wants to get back on top.

Mercedes urged to follow Lewis Hamilton if they want to keep him on the team

In F1, one can never overestimate the role of a senior driver. Take Alonso’s example in this case. The 2x champion joined Aston Martin at the end of last season. Since then, it is his guidance that has led them to build the car they are sporting. Similarly, the Silver Arrows need to follow Hamilton’s guidance or they could lose him at the end of this season.

Castro continued, “It does put Mercedes in a precarious position right now because obviously, they want an extension for Lewis. But Lewis wants a good car. So, at this point, if you are Mercedes, you’re taking your cues from Lewis. You’re going to give Lewis the car that he wants, especially knowing what he can do in those cars.”

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Toto Wolff is well aware of the fact that Lewis is hanging on just to get that coveted 8th-world title. And he also knows that if that doesn’t come through Mercedes, the Briton might just look for that opportunity elsewhere.