Alex Albon‘s outstanding performance played a pivotal role in Williams securing seventh place in the 2023 constructors’ championship. Subsequently, his impressive skills have garnered attention from elite teams. Albon was first linked to Ferrari, more recently, he was mentioned as Hamilton’s 2025 replacement. There were also reports of him getting a Red Bull deal. However, putting an end to all speculations, the Thai driver has now pledged his commitment to Williams.
Following Lewis Hamilton’s surprising move to Ferrari in 2025, Toto Wolff began searching for a new teammate for George Russell. Speculation arose regarding Alex Albon potentially filling the position, especially considering his contract was set to expire in 2024. However, in a recent interview with Sky Sports, Albon opted to set aside these discussions.
He said, “Truthfully, the focus really isn’t there at the moment. That’s more for behind-the-scenes work. I’m focused on Williams and the positive spiral that we’re on and trying to do the best job I can.”
“I am focused on Williams, for now” ⚪
Alex Albon says he’s not thinking about replacing Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes in 2025 ❌ pic.twitter.com/VRK85aJnkQ
— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) February 6, 2024
Albon acknowledges that the interest from major teams is solely based on his on-track performance. However, despite the attention, he wishes to enhance his performance to ensure that these opportunities materialize in the future.
To put it simply, Albon’s top priority at Williams is to perform well before thinking about potentially moving to another team. Yet, even if the 27-year-old desired to depart, it appears that James Vowles is not in the mood to allow him to leave shortly.
How James Vowles explained Alex Albon’s actual contract
Before the unveiling of Williams’ livery, there was speculation surrounding Alex Albon’s contract status. Many fans were under the impression that the Thai driver was only signed with the team until 2024.
This led to speculation that Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari could potentially position the 27-year-old as a candidate for Mercedes. However, Williams F1 boss James Vowles clarified that Albon’s contract actually extends with the team through the 2025 season.
He said, “Alex has signed with Williams until the end of 2025, that’s signed. It’s not something I’ve been very public about, because I don’t feel the need to.”
Vowles further emphasized how the team is working together to create an environment that is appropriate for a driver of Albon’s quality. He emphasized that the success of the Williams squad is his top priority.
The former Mercedes engineer reaffirmed that his duty is to the team as a whole, rather than any individual driver. Therefore, in Vowles’ view, any decision regarding Albon’s potential departure will be carefully considered in light of the team’s long-term aspirations.
Certainly, no team principal would willingly let go of a potential talent like Albon, especially considering he alone secured 27 out of the 28 points for the team. Albon’s consistent performance was evident even when the Williams F1 car was struggling for pace.
