Alonso Believes Verstappen’s Departure from Red Bull Unlikely

Amidst the speculation surrounding the future of Formula 1 drivers, Fernando Alonso, the seasoned competitor from Aston Martin, weighed in on the possibility of Max Verstappen departing from Red Bull Racing. The triple world champion expressed his conviction that Verstappen is unlikely to leave his current team, dismissing any notion of a surprising twist in the driver market for the upcoming season.

As discussions swirl around the contracts of several drivers set to expire at the end of the season, Alonso, a two-time champion himself, finds himself among those contemplating their next move. Verstappen, holding a contract with Red Bull until 2028, has recently faced speculation regarding his future due to reported tensions between his father Jos and Red Bull’s team principal Christian Horner.

During a press briefing ahead of the Japan Grand Prix at the Suzuka Circuit, Alonso addressed the potential impact of Verstappen’s departure on the competitive landscape of Formula 1. Despite the rumors circulating within the paddock, Alonso firmly asserted his belief that Verstappen will remain with Red Bull, emphasizing that the chances of him leaving are “zero.”

While acknowledging the ongoing speculation, Alonso maintained his focus on his own racing endeavors, expressing his intention to evaluate his options and make a decision regarding his future in the sport before the summer. The veteran driver emphasized the importance of assessing all possibilities before committing to his next steps, highlighting the need to consider the best opportunity available for his continued participation in Formula 1.

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Meanwhile, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, faced with the impending departure of seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton, has identified Verstappen as a top candidate for a potential replacement. Alongside Verstappen, Wolff has also mentioned Alonso, Carlos Sainz of Ferrari, and promising Mercedes-backed Formula 2 rookie Kimi Antonelli as potential options to bolster the team’s lineup.

In response to the speculation surrounding his future, Verstappen reiterated his contentment with Red Bull during a press conference, affirming that he is fully focused on his current commitments and is not contemplating any future moves at this time.

The ongoing speculation surrounding Verstappen’s future adds an intriguing layer to the unfolding drama in the Formula 1 driver market. As teams and drivers alike navigate through contract negotiations and strategic decisions, the dynamics of the sport continue to evolve, shaping the landscape for the upcoming seasons. With Verstappen’s commitment to Red Bull seemingly unwavering, the attention now turns to other potential developments that could influence the future direction of Formula 1.