“We want to see Alex lay claim to that seat” – Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has given a lifeline to Alex Albon to prove himself until the Abu Dhabi GP.
After initially stating that Imola is going to be Alex Albon’s last chance to prove himself, Christian Horner has extended the ultimatum until the end of the season. Albon is under pressure to retain his seat or see it go away to Sergio Perez or Nico Hulkenberg. But with options limited for the two drivers, Horner is ready to test their patience and allow Albon to retain his seat at Red Bull.
“As I’ve said all along, we want to see Alex lay claim to that seat.”
Execution: 10/10
Subtlety: 10/10
Top marks for @alex_albon here 👌😂#TurkishGP 🇹🇷 #F1 pic.twitter.com/FOLy7QAQvl
— Formula 1 (@F1) November 12, 2020
“And I think the difference is that the alternatives that we have, all the seats are full in Formula 1. So that buys us a little bit of time to make the most informed decision that we can and of course give Alex as much time as we possibly can, as much support as we can, and see what happens over the remaining three or four races.”
“We’re not putting any particular timescale on it. Alex’s contract allows us to make that decision after the season. Obviously, we’re well aware of what the other options are.”
Lewis Hamilton to replace Alex Albon and partner Max Verstappen at Red Bull?
While most seats at the top have been confirmed for the 2021 season, Lewis Hamilton is yet to agree on a contract extension with Mercedes. Horner added fuel to fire by suggesting Hamilton could make a shock move to Milton Keynes and partner arch-rival Max Verstappen. It would be an outrageous move but in the world of F1, you never say never.
“As I say, all the other seats are committed now and Formula 1 apart from Mercedes – and I doubt that Lewis will be joining us next season, but you never know.”
