Mercedes may need to let De Vries go after impressive FP1 outing

Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has admitted that the team may need to release reserve driver Nyck De Vries if they are unable to offer him a drive in Formula 1.

The Dutch driver had the chance to demonstrate his talent at the French Grand Prix as he stepped in for Lewis Hamilton during Friday’s practice session. He set the ninth fastest time during an impressive stint in the car. It has once again prompted suggestions that he is deserving of a place on the grid.

Speaking after the session, Wolff said they are keen for him to race in F1 however with limited opportunities available in 2023, Mercedes may not be able to guarantee that for him.

“I think if we are not able to provide him with an interesting Formula 1 project, in a way we need to let him go,” Wolff told Sky Sports.
“He’s looking at various options, sportscars, maybe Formula E, but you just must never give up on the opportunity that one day a Formula 1 door can open. Today was very, very good.”
De Vries is the current Formula E champion and also secured the title in Formula 2 in 2019. While he remains highly rated by Mercedes, he has been on the peripheries of F1 for a few seasons so time may be running out for the 27-year-old.