Rumors
'Horner starts talks with Alonso about seat at Red Bull Racing'
- Ludo van Denderen
The silly season in Formula 1 is in full swing. Of course, there was already Lewis Hamilton's mega-transfer from Mercedes to Ferrari, and it remains an option for Max Verstappen - despite an ongoing contract - to swap Red Bull Racing for Mercedes. What is certain in any case: Fernando Alonso's contract at Aston Martin expires. The Spaniard was already linked to Mercedes, recently also to Red Bull Racing. Serious talks have reportedly already taken place with the latter team.
The fact that things are rumbling internally within Red Bull Racing is now clear. The Verstappen camp still wants team boss Horner to pack his bags. If that does not happen, it is uncertain whether the Dutchman will stay with the team. Moreover, the future of Helmut Marko, the team's external advisor, remains in limbo. It is also unclear from the Austrian whether he will serve out his ongoing contract.
Alonso appears to be wanted by Mercedes and Red Bull
Alonso has yet to officially decide whether he wants to continue his F1 career after this season. In any case, the two-time champion is in good standing with the top teams. He may get a chance at Mercedes, although the 42-year-old would prefer to board at Red Bull Racing; the team with which he has the greatest chance of winning a third championship. Whether Marko feels like bringing in the Spaniard is unclear. Horner - with whom Marko has a difficult relationship - seems more intent on giving Alonso a chance.
According to the Telegraph, Horner has even had a "serious conversation" with Alonso. According to the newspaper, this is interesting because normally all matters concerning driver recruitment are done by Marko. He would not be involved in this interview, the newspaper reported. Incidentally, it is unclear whether Alonso is an option for Horner to replace Verstappen, or to recruit him as a second driver.