Formula E world champion Nyck De Vries is “honoured” by being linked to a Formula 1 move for 2022.
The Dutchman claimed the title in the all-electric series following a crazy finale in Berlin last month, adding it to his resume alongside the Formula 2 championship from 2019.
His continued success has led to speculation of a potential F1 switch, with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff more than willing to back the possibility of that happening.
“I’m really happy having them as our drivers in Formula E, I couldn’t wish for anybody else, but I would never be in the way of any driver if they were to have the possibility of driving in Formula 1,” he told Motorsport.com, also referencing De Vries’ Formula E teammate Stoffel Vandoorne.
Also Read:
- De Vries in awe of Mercedes F1 car after beating Vandoorne in Abu Dhabi test
- Raikkonen retirement & Russell, Bottas moves to be announced at Monza – report
“Both drivers have the talent and the work ethic and the intelligence to be in Formula 1, and both of them won the most important junior series [F2/GP2].
“They both deserve to be in Formula 1 and I would very much hope they can find their way back.”
Responding to those comments, De Vries was open-minded on what comes next in his career.
“I heard what [Wolff] said about me, and I am honoured that someone of such stature links me to Formula 1,” he told Dutch publication NOS.
“On the other hand, I also know that you cannot control whether you get a place there next season. Whether this world title has brought Formula 1 a step closer? It certainly opens doors. Winning championships does contribute to the opportunities you get.
“In three years I have won a major championship twice. Of course, that does something to me. But at the same time, I am quite modest and I would prefer to put this world title aside to focus fully on my future.
“I have chosen a different path my whole career, so it is not impossible that I will realise my dream [of F1],” he noted. “But ultimately, racing in Formula 1 is not enough in itself.
“I always look for my challenges everywhere and also, there [in F1], if the opportunity arises.”
With his Mercedes backing, De Vries was initially touted as an option to replace a Mercedes-bound George Russell at Williams.
However, now RaceFans reports the Dutchman is set to partner Valtteri Bottas in an all-new line-up at Alfa Romeo in 2022, with Antonio Giovinazzi switching to WEC.
