McLaren line up Sergio Perez to replace Lewis Hamilton

As Lewis Hamilton’s future in Formula 1 continues to dominate the headlines throughout the paddock, is has been rumored that McLaren are lining up Mexican star Sergio Perez to replace the Briton should he eventually leave the Woking-based outfit. Hamilton has been recently linked to a move to Mercedes for 2013.

With Lewis Hamilton’s contract at McLaren expiring after this season, the Briton has yet to confirm who he’ll drive for next season. At first it was predicted the 2008 World Champion would unquestionably stay with McLaren, a team he has been associated with since the age of 13. However, as the season has progressed rumors up and down the paddock have linked the Briton to a potential move elsewhere. Although Lewis Hamilton has stipulated he remains locked in contractual negotiations with McLaren, a move to Mercedes for a reported £60million has emerged which would most likely see the 27-year-old replace Michael Schumacher alongside Nico Rosberg.

Naturally both parties have denied these allegations, but recent reports indicate that McLaren could be growing restless with Lewis Hamilton and his management company XIX Entertainment. With no confirmation forthcoming on Hamilton’s future, McLaren have decided to formulate a “Plan B”, in case Hamilton does leave the Woking-based outfit. Possible replacements have included Paul di Resta, Heikki Kovalainen and even Kimi Raikkonen. However, the latest driver to join the likely candidates for Hamilton’s vacancy is current Sauber driver Sergio Perez.

The 22-year-old Mexican driver has enjoyed a highly competitive 2012 season, finishing on the podium three times already for Sauber. Perez came exceedingly close to taking victory at the Malaysian Grand Prix at the beginning of the season, finishing only two seconds behind eventual race winner Fernando Alonso. Although Sergio Perez has been linked to a possible drive with Ferrari for 2013, recent rumors have suggested that Ferrari feel the Mexican driver is still too inexperienced to drive for the Scuderia. This being the case, McLaren could well pounce upon Perez and have him team-mate Jenson Button next season.

Lewis Hamilton has remained coy on his future within Formula 1, instead focusing on more important matters such as the World Championship. However, whilst the Briton reserves his energy for the racing, the rumors continue raging on as to whether the 2008 World Champion will be come the start of next season.

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