The silly season is already beginning in Formula 1, and the hunt for free or possible cockpits is already on. According to an F1 insider, several conversations were held on the sidelines of the Miami Grand Prix.
“Several” managers are already actively exploring the market, reports Formula 1 insider and “F1.com” reporter Lawrence Barretto.
On the sidelines of the Miami Grand Prix, representatives of some racing drivers visited the teams’ motorhomes to have “informal discussions”. The goal: Find out whether one of the coveted cockpits in the premier class will soon become available. Red Bull reserve driver Yuki Tsunoda in particular is looking for a way back to the starting grid. At least one team is said to be interested in the Japanese, the report says.
Despite Cadillac’s entry, places in Formula 1 are few and far between; unlike last year, there have been no changes in the driver field this season.
Williams duo with exit options?
While four-time world champion Max Verstappen is constantly being asked whether he will fulfill his contract with Red Bull until 2028, old champion Fernando Alonso will “possibly decide during the summer break” whether he will stick around for another season. If not, a new cockpit will have to be filled at Aston Martin.
According to Barretto, a place could also become available at Alpine if Franco Colapinto is unable to permanently confirm the upward trend recently shown in Miami (seventh place). The Argentine was already under a lot of pressure last year.
There could also be movement at Williams: Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon are said to have multi-year contracts, but according to the report these could contain exit options if performance targets are not achieved. This means: If the British racing team continues to stumble, “they could certainly weigh up their options,” said Barretto.
