DECRYPTION – After Fernando Alonso, the French team could lose its hope, Oscar Piastri, supposed to replace the Spaniard but eager to look elsewhere. Back on a shambles that has lasted for 72 hours at Alpine.
What was the contractual situation of the Alpine drivers?
In 2021, Alpine has one of the most attractive driver duos on the Formula 1 grid by teaming up Esteban Ocon (25) with Fernando Alonso (41), double world champion (2005, 2006). The French team has never hidden wanting to bet on the long term with the first named who extended his commitment in 2021 for three additional seasons. With Alonso, more experienced but also older, Alpine wanted to think more in the short term to assess the level of motivation and performance of its recruit. The Spaniard was out of contract at the end of the season, with an additional year optional. Negotiations were underway to exercise this option, but the veteran wanted a firm two-year commitment with a salary increase. A requirement that did not fully suit Laurent Rossi, the president of the team. Firstly because this operation was expensive and also because the French manufacturer planned to inject…
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