Formula 1 dynasties often become legendary on the back of singular superstar drivers. Michael Schumacher at Ferrari, Sebastian Vettel at Red Bull, and Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes are proof of that. If we come to think of it, these drivers are the biggest assets that these teams have. The risk of losing them is unmeasurable and losing them can derail the entire outfit.

When Schumacher left the Scuderia, they could never emulate the great dominant years they had with the German. And that stands true even to this day! Naturally, the Silver Arrows are quite aware of this fact, and they know just how important it is to retain the services of 7x champion, Lewis Hamilton.

2022 was a litmus test for the character and mentality of Hamilton. The 38-year-old suffered a winless season for the very first time in his Formula 1 career that dates back to 2007. Be that as it may, it all came to a head in the aftermath of the 2022 Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Even though the Brit finished a solid 4th in the race, he was over a minute behind the eventual winner, Max Verstappen. The porpoising issue the team had been facing was also at its worst then. So much so that Hamilton actually hurt his back evidenced by the post-race shots of him holding onto the lower section in pure agony.

It seemed like he had had enough. And for the media, there was just one burning topic—is Lewis Hamilton going to retire?

Christian Horner sympathizes with Mercedes’ plight

Thanks to the latest season of Netflix’s Drive to Survive, we had an insider’s view of how their paddock rivals Red Bull reacted to the crisis going on in the neighboring garage.

During episode 2 of the series, it is seen that the chatter about Hamilton’s retirement is at an all-time high.

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The camera then shifts to Christian Horner, who can be heard saying, “Who on earth would they take? That would drop them really in the sh*t if he decides to retire.” For the Red Bull boss, this was the moment he realized Toto Wolff had a chink in his armor.

“What are Toto’s options if, you know, Lewis were to retire? It leaves them pretty exposed.”

Max Verstappen Disobeyed Red Bull’s Orders to Have Some Dangerous “Fun”

There isn’t any love lost between Horner and Wolff, as evidenced by many moments caught in the docuseries. But going deeper into the new season might just show us why Horner is so apprehensive about the Brackley-based outfit.

Lewis Hamilton inches closer to the 8th title as Horner raises question marks

Yesterday, the three-day pre-season test held at the Sakhir International Circuit in Bahrain concluded. Even though a solid pecking order cannot be deciphered yet, Red Bull feels they have a few curveballs headed their way.

While speaking to Sky Sports, Christian Horner said, “Ferrari look like they’re quick, Mercedes’ form is difficult to read at the moment, are they holding something back? We’ll see this time next week.”

Watch This Story: Max Verstappen and Christian Horner slam Mercedes for trying to ‘take shine off’ F1 title win after Lewis Hamilton drama

Can Lewis Hamilton start off the season in style with a win at next week’s season opener in Bahrain?