Hartley ‘surprised’ by rumours of pending axing

Brendon Hartley is “surprised” to hear rumours that this weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix could be his last in Formula 1 with Pascal Wehrlein being lined up to replace him in Canada.

Although Hartley has a contract with Toro Rosso for this year’s championship, the Red Bull junior is known for being ruthless with drivers they feel are underperforming.

This has led to reports that Monaco could be Hartley’s final race with the team with former Sauber driver Wehrlein a possible replacement.

The New Zealander, who has scored one point in five races, says this all comes a surprise.

“I was surprised to hear that. I have a contract, so I was surprised to hear,” Hartley told Crash.net.

“There’s always a lot of rumours in Formula 1, so as a driver, it’s better not to read too much.

“I know that I’m a team player. I’m working very hard behind the scenes. I know I’m more than capable.

“I think people sometimes have quite short memories in Formula 1. Things move very quick, and from one weekend to the next, the whole story can be a very different one.

“There are plenty of critics. As a driver, you’re your own biggest critic.”