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While new deals for Valtteri Bottas and Carlos Sainz are getting the headlines in Singapore, three other F1 drivers are also featuring prominently on the 2018 driver 'silly season'. Bernie Ecclestone said this week that Fernando Alonso will definitely drive a Renault-powered McLaren next year, but the Spaniard himself is quiet. "I'm relaxed, happy and we'll see what's going on in the next weeks," he said.
More unclear is what Williams' next move will be. Although Claire Williams is now absent to give birth to a baby boy, there are rumours Sergio Perez or Robert Kubica are in the running to replace Felipe Massa. Mexican Perez, however, indicated he is definitely staying at Force India. "I'm about to sign a contract and I hope I can tell you before the next race," he said.
However, he is expected to keep his options open for 2019 by signing only a one-year deal, confirming: "In 2019 there will be many seats available. So you have to be flexible." Meanwhile, it is believed Williams - like Renault - regards a comeback for the permanently injured Kubica to be a risk.
And 36-year-old veteran Massa keeps the British team's alcohol sponsor Martini happy with his experience and age. But Massa said in Singapore: "I don't want to stay at a team just because it suits some sponsors. I want to be wanted and able to contribute to achieving the goals." (GMM)
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Replies (3)
Login to replymbmwe36
Posts: 533
Oh now 2019 is seen as the year where "a lot of seats will be available". Haven't we been hearing this for the past 2-3 years?
I will say this, though, that Massa should consider retirement at the end of this season, regardless of his options. He is so far away from what he once was, that it's getting embarrassing. The same could kinda sorta be said for Kimi, but I get why he continues, because he sits in a potentially championship winning car, so you might as well give it a shot.
I think Kubica would be a good fit at Williams, because who else are they gonna get at this point? Especially if that person needs to be in his mid-twenties or older.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
"Isnt that a popular word (phrase really, dear Salazar) these days?". Im sort of torn on Massa. He isnt a bad driver, far from it, but I agree that there might be drivers more suitable to take his place. I could very well see Perez leading Williams, assuming Force India is willing to let go of his shitton of sponsors. I very much agree on Kimi. He isnt bad, and at times he really shines, but IMO he should retire after 2018. As for Kubica to Williams... Who knows? I'd certainly not mind it! :)
mcbhargav
Posts: 1,332
Perez to Williams? doesn't make sense.