Flavio Briatore has hinted at a close focus on the 2027 driver market, especially regarding Antonelli and Russell’s futures at Mercedes.
George Russell’s seat at Mercedes may not be guaranteed beyond 2027, according to Flavio Briatore’s recent comments. The Alpine advisor is carefully watching the driver market, paying particular attention to the current lineup at Toto Wolff’s team and the implications for Russell’s future at Mercedes.
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Max Verstappen wants to stay in Formula 1 next year, though he has yet to confirm which team he will race for or whether he will continue with Red Bull. With the four-time world champion technically a free agent, the Italian entrepreneur believes Mercedes could once again target him.
In recent years, Verstappen’s name has been linked to Mercedes, and Toto Wolff has openly expressed interest.
When The Race asked Briatore about Alpine’s drivers for 2027, he acknowledged observing developments closely: “We don’t yet know what will happen at Mercedes. We don’t know if Mercedes will sign Max, or anything else. So we’ll wait and see before making decisions.”
Briatore appears keen to hold off until the situation with the two Mercedes drivers becomes clearer before Alpine announces its 2027 lineup. This cautious approach highlights the uncertainty around George Russell Mercedes future at Mercedes.
Alpine’s driver contracts and prospects for 2027
Among Alpine’s drivers, only Pierre Gasly has a long-term contract secured through 2027. Franco Colapinto is signed only until the end of 2026, but Briatore believes the Argentine has the talent to continue in Formula 1.
“Right now, we have Gasly and Colapinto. For 2027, Gasly is locked in with a multi-year deal. After that, we’ll see. I hope Franco keeps performing well until the end of the season to secure his future,” Briatore said.
Cover image credit: Getty Images
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