Even though Valtteri Bottas has been with Mercedes for almost six years, he has managed to clock a mediocre season so far in 2021.
Many experts seem to think that Bottas might get replaced with Williams driver George Russell or Alpine driver Esteban Ocon.
According to Motorsport journalist Fergal Walsh, Toto Wolff should consider Ocon over Russell for the second seat at Mercedes beside Lewis Hamilton.
Walsh argues in Motorsport Monday about the qualities of Ocon and why he would be a better fit for the Silver Arrows.
“Ocon has the Formula 1 experience, he has the speed, now all he needs is the opportunity to show off his talent,” Walsh argues.
“His stately presence in F1 and his connections to Mercedes should earn him the right to be considered at [Mercedes] for 2022.”
Not enough experience
Ocon, while driving for Alpine, has to pacify himself with a mediocre car that belongs in the midfield. However, he has consistently out-performed his teammate Fernando Alonso.
There is, however, one factor that can go against Ocon being promoted. His lack of experience at the front of the grid could act as a hindrance. Walsh refutes this categorically.
“There is an argument that Ocon has not raced at the front of a motorsport field since 2015, when he won the GP3 Series, prior to his sudden Formula 1 promotion,” he said.
“But no matter how his possible inadequacy is viewed, Mercedes must accept that whatever they choose to do, there will always be a risk or two involved.”
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