Red Bull driver Max Verstappen believes Sebastian Vettel could still end up joining Mercedes in 2021. The Dutchman reckons the 4 times World Champion has a chance to team up with Lewis Hamilton next season. Furthermore, he admitted that he was surprised by Ferrari’s announcement to part ways with Seb in 2021.
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Max Verstappen thinks Sebastian Vettel has a shot at a Mercedes seat for 2021
As things stand, Sebastian Vettel doesn’t have a seat for 2021. He hasn’t announced his plans for next year but all signs point towards a sabbatical or retirement. When Ferrari announced Seb’s exit, many believed the German would find another team with relative ease. McLaren and Red Bull seemed like strong possibilities judging by rumors, but as we now know, it won’t be happening.
Mercedes emerged as an unlikely top team option, but the chances were always going to be slim. Last week, Valtteri Bottas confirmed that Mercedes wasn’t interested in Vettel for next year, which was the final nail in the coffin.
Now, Vettel’s only choices are to put up with a midfield team, wait it out for a good seat, or retire. Difficult choices, but this is the harsh reality facing Sebastian and his F1 hopes.
Nevertheless, Max is of the opinion that the German could still end up at Mercedes in 2021. A bold prediction, that’s borderline outrageous if we’re being completely honest. F1 fans can only dream of Lewis and Seb teaming up next year. The chances of that actually happening are slimmer than Williams becoming World Champions this year.
Then again, Max could just be stirring the pot. Speaking to RTL, Verstappen said:
That was a surprise, but in the end, Sebastian and Ferrari thought the separation was best for everyone. I expected that he would drive for Ferrari for another year or two”.
Why not? It could happen, of course. Vettel has achieved so much in the sport, it would be a pity if he didn’t continue driving in Formula 1”
Realistically, Mercedes has Bottas and Russell to seriously consider before Vettel enters the picture. However, does Verstappen know some secrets that we don’t?