'Two teams tried to sign Albon last season, Williams did not cooperate'
Rumors
The 2024 season has yet to get off to a start, but the first rumours about the season are already circulating. This year's F1 grid will be exactly the same as last season's, but in 2025, that does not seem to be going to happen at all (as many contracts expire after this year). According to ESPN, Alexander Albon - despite an ongoing commitment - would also be keen on a switch.
Albon was the revelation of last season. In a Williams that is still not as competitive as they hope, the British-Thai driver soared to great heights. He was able to beat teammate Logan Sargeant and picked up 27 points, enough for 13th in the world championship.
ESPN writes that 'it is believed Albon is keen to get out from under his current Williams deal'. The 27-year-old driver is still under contract with the British team until the end of 2025, but would therefore reportedly like a step up. Albon himself has also stated several times in the media that he is mentally ready to drive for a top team again.
The American media also reports that two teams tried unsuccessfully to bring Albon in last year. Williams did not want to cooperate and pointed to its driver's ongoing contract.
Where is there room?
Albon is 'hot' name in Formula 1, but it is therefore perfectly possible that he will not return to the market until 2026. That is particularly unfavourable for Albon himself, as Red Bull will have to start handing out a new (likely majority) contract in 2025, and at Ferrari the contracts of Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc also expire in 2024.
Lewis Hamilton and George Russell are fixed at Mercedes until the end of 2025, so there might be an opening there for Albon after that season. However, the German formation also boasts up-and-coming junior Andrea Kimi Antonelli (18). The Italian makes his debut in Formula 2 this year and is credited with a great future. Admittedly, 2026 may come a bit soon, but Mercedes will not be so quick to offer Albon a three-year contract.
Lando Norris, like Albon, will enter the market after 2025. Oscar Piastri is still fixed at McLaren until 2026, though. Aston Martin, is where perhaps the biggest opportunity lies ahead. Fernando Alonso may be retired by then and Lance Stroll's future also seems anything but certain.