P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Alpine is going to wait to finalise its 2027 F1 line-up – and that seems to be in case either Mercedes suddenly ends up on the market
Alpine executive advisor Flavio Briatore is waiting to finalize his Formula 1 team’s line-up until he ensures that none of Mercedes’ current drivers unexpectedly become available next year, potentially due to a switch involving Max Verstappen. Despite Franco Colapinto’s strong recent performances, Briatore remains open to other options for Alpine’s driver line-up for 2027. Briatore is particularly focused on what could happen with Mercedes drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, indicating a potential shake-up in the driver market. The uncertainty surrounding the future of Max Verstappen and his potential move from Red Bull has added complexity to the driver market speculation. Briatore will likely delay making a decision on Alpine’s second seat alongside Pierre Gasly until there is more clarity on the driver market, especially regarding the high-profile moves involving top teams like Mercedes and Red Bull. The recent improvements in Colapinto’s performance have impressed Briatore, who sees potential in the driver and appreciates his progress and changed attitude compared to last year’s challenges.
