Mercedes F1 team snub Hamilton in Ricciardo-Vettel admission

A few members of the Mercedes Formula 1 team have snubbed their own star driver, Lewis Hamilton, in favour of other motorsport heroes.

In a video posted to the team’s social media, various staff members revealed their personal racing icons, with many opting for drivers like Daniel Ricciardo and Sebastian Vettel over the seven-time world champion.

F1 HEADLINES: Hamilton facing Ferrari SHOCK as MONSTROUS £84 million blow revealed

READ MORE: Ricciardo 'OFFERS' revealed as star tipped for astonishing F1 return

While Hamilton still emerged as the most popular choice overall, with five members selecting him as their hero, several staff members looked elsewhere for inspiration.

Among the alternative picks were four-time world champion Vettel, chosen by two team members, and the recently axed Ricciardo, who received a nod from one.

Notably, even Takuma Sato, Nigel Mansell, and rally legend Colin McRae made the list of motorsport heroes, further demonstrating the wide range of influence in the racing world.

Russell picks Hamilton as his F1 hero

In a wholesome moment, current Mercedes driver George Russell chose Hamilton as his motorsport hero.

Hamilton himself, however, opted for F1 legend Ayrton Senna, as did Mercedes’ rising talent Kimi Antonelli.

Perhaps the most striking aspect of the video was the absence of more dominant support for Hamilton, who has delivered unprecedented success to the team since joining in 2013.

Michael Schumacher, who helped lay the foundation for Mercedes’ modern F1 success, also featured on the list, chosen by one staff member.

READ MORE: Hamilton EXCITED to start a family as F1 star issues major update

Meanwhile, former IndyCar and NASCAR driver Katherine Legge, known for breaking barriers as a female in motorsport, also earned a mention.

The diverse range of picks reflects the varied inspirations of the Mercedes F1 team, but the fact that some opted against Hamilton, the driver who has secured six of his seven world titles with Mercedes, is sure to raise eyebrows among fans of the Silver Arrows.

Despite the unexpected snubs, Hamilton remains one of the most influential figures in motorsport, with a lasting legacy that continues to inspire both his teammates and future generations of racers.

READ MORE: Hamilton sends fans WILD with huge announcement

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

Charles Leclerc calls out Ferrari bias as F1 star opens up on Lewis Hamilton fight

• 12 minutes ago

F1 News Today: Lewis Hamilton in turmoil as F1 star hit with double FIA punishment

• 2 hours ago

Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari in turmoil after Mercedes humiliation at Azerbaijan Grand Prix

• Yesterday 20:58

F1 star Lewis Hamilton issues grid penalty verdict ahead of Azerbaijan Grand Prix

• Yesterday 18:05

Kimi Antonelli OUT of Azerbaijan Grand Prix qualifying after hitting wall

• Yesterday 14:36

Mercedes F1 chief Toto Wolff absent at Azerbaijan Grand Prix as replacement steps up

• Yesterday 13:55