The F1 news cycle is intensifying, with reports suggesting movement from the Fernando Alonso camp as Red Bull rumours circulate.
Aston Martin began the 2024 season in unremarkable fashion, finishing P9 and P10 in Bahrain. Conclusions cannot be drawn at this stage, but the team’s Bahrain result will certainly incentivise Alonso to explore his options.
Heading into this year, the British outfit represented a huge question mark.
Despite a handful of encouraging sessions in free practice and qualifying, the Bahrain GP confirmed there is work to do.
To be clear, the AMR24 is still a reasonable baseline for Aston Martin.
Bahrain is a circuit that does not push cars heavily in one area, requiring balance above everything else. This means venues like Jeddah, Shanghai and especially Suzuka will provide a clearer picture.
Still, it is difficult to overlook the possibility that Aston could fail to deliver what Alonso wants.
Alonso’s camp evaluates the field
Before last week’s GP, Fernando Alonso, stated that he would evaluate every option in the driver market.
The Double World Champion made no secret that he is an “attractive” option in free agency.
Mercedes is one of the first teams the Spaniard has been linked with over winter.
Only a few weeks ago, Flavio Briatore shared an image on social media with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff.
Whilst there are many options available in the market, Alonso remains the biggest name available for the Silver Arrows.
However, this is not the only team the Spaniard has been linked with.
Briatore was also seen having a lengthy discussion with Christian Horner in Sakhir last week.
An unpredictable market develops
Evidently, all options are being considered as “silly season” intensifies.
Red Bull’s power struggle is also contributing to speculation that change is imminent.
Regardless of the validity of the increasingly shocking reports emerging, it seems clear this year will be volatile.
Amidst this uncertainty, the 42-year-old could insert himself as a viable option.
Briatore also revealed in the Bahrain grid that Alonso’s camp is “working” to find “the best option” available.
As it stands, Red Bull and Mercedes are the only top teams available if Aston Martin cannot climb the field.
Inevitably, Kimi Antonelli’s progress will also play a factor in the Brackley squad’s decision.
Meanwhile, the reigning Champions will evaluate if they feel confident in promoting either Yuki Tsunoda or Daniel Ricciardo.
Whilst these drivers are – on paper – the more obvious options for Red Bull, the last few months prove anything can happen in the F1 market.
It goes without saying that the uncertainties outnumber the guarantees in the paddock.
Provided Alonso can continue performing, there could be a window of opportunity.
