Alex Albon shows true feelings about replacing Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes
Alex Albon could be a contender to replace Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes next year.
Alex Albon insists he is focused entirely on Williams despite reports linking him with big moves to Mercedes or Red Bull. The British-born Thai driver is one of the candidates to replace Lewis Hamilton when the seven-time world champion ditches Mercedes for Ferrari in 2025.
Albon previously raced for Red Bull for two years between 2020 and 2021, before spending a year as their test driver. The 27-year-old could return to the team if Sergio Perez leaves at the end of 2024.
However, Albon said that interest from wealthier teams will only arise if he has a positive season with Williams. He finished 13th in 2023, scoring 17 points.
Asked about replacing Hamilton at Mercedes in a year’s time, Albon told Sky Sports: "Truthfully, the focus really isn't there at the moment. That's more for behind-the-scenes work. I'm focused on Williams and the positive spiral that we're on and trying to do the best job I can.
"Obviously, the interest comes in the performances. That's why there's a bit of a noise, just because of the season that we've had last year.
"I've got to keep that up and then do a bit more just to make sure that these opportunities are available.
"At the same time, I am focused at Williams for now, and a lot of it will be about these first few races that are on the calendar, seeing how much of a step we've made as a team."
Albon will no doubt fancy his chances of replacing Hamilton at Mercedes for the start of 2025. A seat alongside George Russell will open up when Hamilton completes his surprise move to Ferrari, which was announced last week.
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Hamilton is believed to have informed Mercedes of his decision last Wednesday, U-turning on a contract he signed last summer that tied him down for the 2024 and 2025 seasons. The announcement was made just 24 hours later, leaving the entire Formula One grid stunned.
"I was [shocked]," Albon admitted of the moment he heard about Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes. "I have to say, I think normally we most probably get a little bit more insight to these kind of moves a week or two before the announcement gets made.
“ But I was in Spain at that moment. I think I was just as surprised as everyone else.”