Ever since Lewis Hamilton‘s Ferrari decision, the Mercedes team has been in a state of internal turmoil to find a replacement. The record champions need to fill the void left by the seven-time world champion with equally capable shoes. Now with the grid featuring only three world champions, according to rumors, Mercedes shifts their focus on the only remaining option, Fernando Alonso. Alonso is still an exceptional driver and the Brackley outfit will be more than willing to get him on board. With these rumors swirling around, now even George Russell has given his unofficial seal of approval.

From day one, Alonso to Mercedes was part of the rumor mill. However, this rumor is not dying down anytime soon. In fact, this rumor has now gathered more steam after the Mercedes boss was pictured eating breakfast with Flavio Briatore, Alonso’s manager. Briatore documented this breakfast date with Toto Wolff on Instagram at a bakery in Monte Carlo called Pasticceria Cova Montecarlo.

This Instagram post highlighting the meeting between the two made everyone come to the same conclusion–Alonso to Mercedes. We’re not sure if Alonso’s future was the main agenda of the meeting between the two. However, the suggestion of it is evident and Goerge Russell likes that suggestion.

The young Brit liked the prospect of Alonso becoming his teammate in 2025 as he reacted to the post by liking it, subtly giving his seal of approval. Perhaps reading a bit into the situation but we can’t rule it out, especially with Alonso’s contract expiring at the end of the upcoming season.

Read More: Fernando Alonso to Mercedes? Carlos Sainz to Red Bull? How Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari Move Blows the 2025 F1 Driver Market Wide Open

It would be a mega move from the Spaniard who is known to switch teams on a whim. His last decision served him well and earned him a lot of podiums. Joining Mercedes in 2025 could take him a step further. However, Alonso plans to stay loyal to Aston Martin.

Fernando Alonso has his priorities straight

We know Alonso is a driver who can change his mind in a second and also his team if he doesn’t see promise in the team. He proved this with his dealing with Alpine in 2022. The Spaniard switched his loyalties to Aston Martin and it was the perfect decision. The podiums started rolling and Alonso started enjoying his time in F1 again.

Because of this rejuvenated outlook toward the sport, the Spaniard will give his current team the first option while securing his future.

Alonso made this admission during the launch of the AMR24. He stated, “If I want to keep racing, let’s see what the options are, my first priority will be always to sit down and discuss with Aston.”

WATCH THIS STORY: Fernando Alonso revives tradition, ends 4-week drought, celebrates triumph

We have not seen Alonso make any team his priority in a long time. However, the Silverstone outfit has given him enough reason in 2023 and showcased loyalty and he might just stick with them based on the 2024 outcome