Mercedes ex‑engineer says staff voted for Fernando Alonso after Hamilton's exit

Former Mercedes Formula 1 engineer José Manuel “Josema” Galán recounted that, following Lewis Hamilton’s surprise move to Ferrari in the winter of 2024, team boss Toto Wolff asked all employees at the Brackley factory to raise a hand for the driver who should replace Hamilton. After a series of names drew few votes, Wolff mentioned Fernando Alonso and the entire room lifted their hands, according to Galán. The poll was conducted as Mercedes searched for a driver for the 2026 technical regulations, but the team ultimately did not sign Alonso, who remained with Aston Martin.

Galán’s interview, published on the YouTube channel “Mínimo Común Múltipla”, highlighted the internal enthusiasm for the two‑time champion despite previous criticism of his performances. The anecdote provides insight into the team’s morale and driver‑selection atmosphere during a period of major driver market upheaval.