MONTREAL, QUEBEC – 18 DE JUNHO: The veteran Aston Martin driver, Alonso, is one of several drivers whose contracts expire at the end of the season, while Verstappen is signed with Red Bull until 2028. However, Verstappen’s future has been clouded by the tense relationship between his father Jos and team boss Christian Horner.
During a press conference at the Suzuka Circuit before the Japanese Grand Prix, Alonso was asked if Verstappen’s departure could affect the competition for seats among drivers. Alonso replied: “If Max leaves Red Bull, that could have an impact, but I believe the chances of that happening are zero.”
Alonso, a two-time Formula 1 world champion, revealed that his focus is on making a decision about his own racing career before the summer. He wants to determine whether he will continue racing and, if so, where the best opportunity lies.
Toto Wolff, head of the Mercedes team, who will lose seven-time F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari, mentioned Verstappen as one of the top candidates for a possible replacement, should he become available. Wolff also listed Alonso, Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz, and Mercedes-backed F2 rookie Kimi Antonelli as potential options. Sebastian Vettel also entered the conversation.
During a press conference in Suzuka, Verstappen expressed his satisfaction with his current situation and his desire to maintain it. He emphasized that he has a contract with Red Bull until 2028 and that his main concern is deciding whether he wants to continue racing or not.
Verstappen added: “Right now, I’m not thinking too much about these things. What matters most to me is whether I want to continue, not so much where I would go.” This Sunday in Japan, Verstappen will seek to return to his winning ways. (Reporting by John Geddie)
