The team may consider Alonso if they choose not to renew Sergio Perez’s contract beyond this year. Alonso’s future is uncertain, with possibilities available at Aston Martin or elsewhere.
Max Verstappen shared his thoughts on the potential hiring of Fernando Alonso by Red Bull, describing it as “unusual” due to Alonso’s age.
Alonso, a two-time F1 champion, is the oldest driver on the grid at 42 years old, and has had initial discussions with Red Bull.
The team may consider Alonso if they choose not to renew Sergio Perez’s contract beyond this year. Alonso’s future is uncertain, with possibilities available at Aston Martin or elsewhere.
Verstappen, unconcerned with who his teammate will be, expressed to De Limburger: “I don’t care who sits next to me” and “I always have confidence in myself and, in my opinion, I am in control of everything.”
However, he noted: “But if you ask me, I would find it strange to hire a 42-year-old driver. Red Bull has always had the tradition of training young drivers on their own.”
Verstappen acknowledged the break in tradition when Red Bull hired Perez, but emphasized his focus on the team’s future.
Despite having a good relationship with Alonso, he believes that the decision about drivers is up to the team.
The vacancy at Mercedes for 2025, opened up by Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, is another key aspect in the F1 driver market, with Verstappen and Alonso among the names being considered.
Verstappen, however, remains dedicated to Red Bull, aiming for his fourth consecutive F1 title.
Alonso and Carlos Sainz, who is seeking opportunities after Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, are seen as potential candidates for the Mercedes seat.
Carlos Sainz addresses Ferrari’s concerns.
Sainz also could be an option for Aston Martin if Alonso leaves.
Despite speculations surrounding his future, Perez’s performance in 2024, including two second places behind Verstappen, may secure his position at Red Bull.
As the Japanese F1 Grand Prix approaches, Verstappen leads the grid, with Perez close behind, highlighting the competitive dynamics within Red Bull and broader implications for the F1 driver market.
