Mercedes Evaluating Options for 2020 F1 Season: Dieter Zetsche

ESSENTIALLY SPORTS : Mercedes Evaluating Options for 2020 F1 Season: Dieter Zetsche

Daimler chairman Dieter Zetsche has said that Mercedes will stay in Formula 1 until 2020. Beyond that, the German marquee will have to assess their options. These speculations came out especially after they withdrew from DTM to join Formula E in 2019. However, Zetsche said: “Formula 1 is linked to our history and our brand. It is a component that has helped us develop the brand and make it younger, so for now I do not see a change of strategy until 2021. The Concorde agreement will last until that date and I am not even thinking about it,”

Future Plans

Zetsche spoke of Mercedes’ future at the unveiling of the Project One supercar. “We decided to leave DTM and start the project in Formula E,” he explained. “At the moment this series is a social and PR platform, but we want to help to increase the competition between the teams.”

Even team boss Toto Wolff and Niki Lauda have echoed Zetsche’s words. He said, “Mercedes decided in 2009 to compete not only as an engine supplier but also with its own team in Formula 1. We have committed ourselves until 2020, but what happens then is unclear. In my opinion, we will stay in Formula 1 if the sport develops in a positive way.”

So in other words, Mercedes are not going anywhere, anytime soon. But why would they? they have a good thing going for them at the moment. Two solid drivers with one confirmed for 2018 as well. Championship leader Lewis Hamilton has yet to renew his contract, but an announcement is expected soon.