Dutch GP boss: Mercedes F1 quit 'not unthinkable'

Dutch Grand Prix boss Jann Lammers admits it is 'not unthinkable' that Mercedes could quit F1 at the end of the year.

With huge regulation changes for 2021, the sort that saw the order shuffled considerably in 2009 and again in 2014, many are predicting that Mercedes would rather leave the sport than risk losing their winning reputation.

To this end, Mercedes have yet to commit themselves and neither Valtteri Bottas or six-time champion Lewis Hamilton have a contract in place past the end of the year.

“It is somewhat uncertain what they will do in the long term,” said Lammers told F1 Maximaal. “I certainly don’t think it’s unthinkable that they’ll say ‘It was fantastic, but it’s time to do something else’.”

Just as Ferrari and McLaren were hit hard by the previous regulation changes, McLaren still operating in the midfield, Mercedes have been so dominant that it is highly unlikely that they would continue at the same level.

“I think the chance of further dominance is statistically small,” continued Lammers.

“Although they are still impressive, you can perhaps say that Mercedes has now reached the peak.”

Even as the 2020 season closes into view, it is predicted that Mercedes will face a tougher fight ahead of the changes. Ferrari have edged closer in recent years and the significant improvement from Honda in 2019 did not go unnoticed - Max Verstappen showing his faith by signing a contract extension already.

“Honda just has to perform and they are doing that,” said Lammers. “Verstappen has signed on the basis of technical and sporting confidence. With this [new contract], Max and his team are showing their confidence in Honda and Red Bull.”

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