Formula 1: Red Bull set timetable on 2021 decision
By Asher Fair
Red Bull’s 2021 Formula 1 driver lineup, specifically Max Verstappen’s teammate, is reportedly slated to be confirmed within the next two weeks.
Red Bull are one of five teams which have not confirmed their entire 2021 Formula 1 driver lineup. Max Verstappen signed a multi-year extension with the team back in January, but no other confirmations have been made regarding next year.
AlphaTauri, the Red Bull sister team, are another, but their situation is practically set. Pierre Gasly has signed a deal to return to the team next year while Daniil Kvyat is expected to be replaced by Red Bull Junior Team driver and current Carlin Formula 2 driver Yuki Tsunoda.
As for the fourth seat, multiple names have been discussed, with three standing out. Alexander Albon could obviously end up back in the seat, but Sergio Perez and Nico Hulkenberg have both been mentioned as potential candidates to replace him.
Here is what Red Bull motorsport advisor Dr. Helmut Marko recently had to say about the matter, according to F1 Insider.
"“We want to be clear about the fourth position in Istanbul at the latest.”"
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The race at Intercity Istanbul Park, the Turkish Grand Prix, is scheduled to take place on Sunday, November 15, which is under two weeks from now. Aside from today’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix at Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari, there are no more races on the schedule from now until then.
Albon currently competes for the team and has done so since last August when it was announced that he would be promoted from AlphaTauri, then known as Toro Rosso, as the replacement for the struggling Gasly. He retained his ride for 2020, but his performance has not been up to par so far, leading to rumors of his potential replacement.
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While it is expected that no Red Bull teammate can match the pace of Verstappen, Albon has completely missed the mark this year, failing to outqualify the Dutchman through 13 races. He sits in eighth place in the driver standings with 64 points while Verstappen sits up in third with 162 in a tight battle with Mercedes’ Valtteri Bottas for second.