Mercedes might have one of the quickest cars, but they’re struggling to find drivers to get behind the wheel in Barcelona it seems.
The Anglo-German outfit was forced to call on reserve driver Pascal Wehrlein – who at the time was driving a Force India – to replace an ill Lewis Hamilton.
Some questioned why Nico Rosberg wasn’t drafted in, after all he was at the track. However it turned out the German too was unable to drive thanks to a trapped nerve in his neck.
Rosberg is scheduled to be behind the wheel on Friday, and whilst he’s showing signs of feeling better, Wehrlein says he’s ready to step up again if needed.
“Let’s see,” he said. “I’m here and if something happens I can drive and I will drive, but hopefully the [Hamilton and Rosberg] can drive and get some practice in the new car.”
The 20-year-old was certainly happy to be called upon though and described the opportunity to drive two cars in one day “amazing”.
“Today was a really good day in my career,” he added. “I was quite surprised in the morning when I got the information that I would be driving the Mercedes in the afternoon. But I am here and I want to drive, so I am ready for any opportunity.
“To drive two Formula One cars in one day was amazing, so I’m very happy. I will have another day with them [Force India] this week so I am really looking forward to getting back out there again.”
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