On this week’s episode of F1’s Beyond the Grid Tom Clarkson sits down with Gwen Lagrue, the man charged with leading Mercedes’ junior driver programme. And he sits down to discuss all, including discovering the future stars of motorsport.
Lagrue’s keen eye for talent has seen him uncover some hidden gems currently on the grid, with the likes of George Russell, Esteban Ocon, and Alex Albon all having been found by the talent guru.
F1 NATION: Spectacular Singapore awaits as Verstappen’s rivals try to halt his unbroken run
And Lagrue reveals to Clarkson what it was about Russell, Ocon, and Albon that made them so special during their early karting days, as he explains what qualities he is looking for when he goes searching for young talent.
A big part of the Frenchman’s job is to help these young drivers reach their potential in the pinnacle of motorsport and he describes what he does to get the best out of them, before also revealing how often a future world champion comes along.
Lagrue also talks about his role at Mercedes, and working alongside Team Principal Toto Wolff. He also shares some insight into the Silver Arrows’ current junior driver programme, and whether there are any young proteges we should have on our radar.
Other topics also discussed on the episode by the pair is Mercedes’ recruitment strategy and how they convince young drivers to sign with them, as he also shares how close they came to signing double world champion Max Verstappen.
To listen to Lagrue’s Beyond The Grid interview hit go on the player above or head here to catch it on your preferred platform.
