P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Valtteri Bottas has emerged as a leading candidate for a surprise switch to Alpine should the F1 team decide it wants to replace Franco Colapinto
Valtteri Bottas is a leading candidate for a potential switch to Alpine if they decide to replace Franco Colapinto, and discussions have taken place between Alpine’s Flavio Briatore and Mercedes about Bottas joining the team. Bottas, without a full-time F1 race seat since leaving Sauber, has expressed his desire to return to racing. While discussions are in early stages, Bottas’ potential move to Alpine could provide him with a lifeline in F1, especially as Alpine is struggling in the championship. Alpine is currently at the bottom of the constructors’ standings, with Pierre Gasly as the team’s sole point scorer. Briatore has signaled the need for improvement, particularly from Colapinto, who replaced Jack Doohan earlier in the season.
