Ever wondered how your Formula 1 heroes are found in the first place?

Well, George Russell, Esteban Ocon and Alex Albon may not be on the grid today if it wasn’t for the keen eye of F1 talent guru Gwen Lagrue.

He’s the Frenchman in charge of Mercedes’ junior driver programme, with a track record of uncovering hidden gems and helping them fulfil their potential in the pinnacle of motorsport.

Speaking to Tom Clarkson, Gwen talks about the traits that separated Russell, Ocon and Albon from others in their early karting years, what qualities he’s looking for when scouting young drivers, how regularly a future World Champion comes along, and some of the protégés currently on Mercedes’ radar.

Plus, you’ll hear the thoughts of Mercedes Team Principal, Toto Wolff, on their recruitment strategy and whether Max Verstappen could have ended up at the team in different circumstances.

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Alex Albon

Esteban Ocon

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Toto Wolff

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Gwen Lagrue: finding F1's future stars

F1 Beyond The Grid