All articles tagged with #driver line up
George Russell hinted at ongoing discussions with Max Verstappen's camp, suggesting Mercedes is exploring options for their 2026 driver line-up, which has prompted Toto Wolff to emphasize transparency and confidence in their current drivers, including Russell, amidst speculation about Verstappen's potential move.
Alpine and Esteban Ocon will part ways at the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season after a five-year partnership. Ocon, who joined the team in 2020 and secured his and Alpine's first Grand Prix win in 2021, will continue racing for the team for the remainder of the season. Alpine will announce their 2025 driver line-up in due course, while Ocon plans to reveal his future soon. The decision follows a challenging race weekend in Monaco, but sources indicate it was not a direct response to the recent incident.
Ferrari's delay in confirming Carlos Sainz's contract extension alongside Charles Leclerc's new deal is puzzling, given their formidable driver line-up and the need for stability. Sainz's desire for a longer-term contract and race-winning machinery is understandable, as he offers a different skill set that complements Leclerc's speed. While Ferrari may be keeping their options open, risking the loss of Sainz, who has viable alternatives, could be detrimental to the team's success.
Aston Martin has ruled out the involvement of Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll in their Valkyrie Hypercar program, stating that they will focus on recruiting drivers from their existing roster for the team's campaigns in the World Endurance Championship and IMSA SportsCar Championship. The team plans to utilize drivers contracted to Heart of Racing and Aston Martin Racing, with the possibility of supplementing the lineup as needed. While there is no ambition to have a big name driver, the door is not closed for Alonso to race a Valkyrie after his F1 career. Testing for the Valkyrie program will initially involve the AMR Pro track-day Valkyrie before a more definitive car is introduced.
Haas has announced that it will retain its current driver pairing of Kevin Magnussen and Nico Hulkenberg for the 2024 Formula 1 season. Despite their current positions in the drivers' standings, Haas believes that the duo has provided valuable feedback and has shown promise. The team aims to address its issues and develop a car capable of consistent point-scoring performances. The length of the drivers' contracts was not disclosed, but both Magnussen and Hulkenberg expressed their happiness in continuing with the team.