Formula 1 is an extremely unforgiving sport, with driver lineups changing every year as teams look to secure the best possible championship finish.
Drivers such as Mick Schumacher and Daniel Ricciardo have now departed the grid, despite clearing having the quality to remain in the sport as their team’s look to go in a different direction than before.
Alex Albon has struggled for security during his time in Formula 1, even having to take a year away from the sport in 2021 after being dropped by Red Bull.
Impressive performances at Toro Rosso saw him promoted to Red Bull to replace the struggling Pierre Gasly but was replaced himself by Sergio Perez at the end of 2020.
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The Thai driver has now returned to the sport with Williams and is entering his second season with the team after impressing in his debut season.
Albon has explained that signing a long-term contract in Formula 1 is a great feeling, as it allows him to stop stressing about his immediate future.
“I guess the last two years, one of those years was very stressful, and the other one being nervous, and I guess I was gearing up for the year and didn’t know what to expect,” he told Motorsport.com.
“I’ve signed a contract which is maybe one of the best feelings, long term. It’s a privilege in Formula 1, if I’m being honest. I’m feeling very good, feeling proud, just proud of how things have turned out.
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“It’s been a bit of an up-and-down rollercoaster in Formula 1 for me, and it’s nice that I feel like I’m building now. I’m excited to be working with the team into the new year, focused on car development and what you’d consider the normal things, not worrying about having a drive.”
Finnish driver Valtteri Bottas has echoed Albon’s claims, telling the media that he is loving the feeling of being tied down to a multi-year contract with Alfa Romeo, having spent most of his career fighting to keep his seat at Mercedes.
Albon’s responsibilities at Williams will increase this year, as the team will look to him to lead the team as rookie American Logan Sargeant joins the team.