Ferrari Team Principal Frederic Vasseur has refuted rumours of his interest in signing Williams driver Alex Albon, as he puts off discussions with his current drivers.
Carlos Sainz, currently without a contract for 2025, expressed his understanding and said he prioritises Ferrari’s current challenges over driver negotiations.
Amidst the speculation surrounding his future, Alex Albon remains optimistic and sees the rumours as a positive sign of his improving performances.
The British-born Thai driver, who has revitalised his Formula 1 career after moving down the Red Bull hierarchy, welcomes the attention but also appreciates the support he receives at Williams.
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In response to the rumours, Carlos Sainz states that he agrees with Vasseur’s decision to delay talks about the drivers’ future contracts.
He believes that Ferrari currently has more pressing matters to address than discussing driver lineups.
“No, I personally agree with Fred,” Sainz affirmed during the Hungarian Grand Prix. “I think in Ferrari right now, there are much bigger priorities than sorting out the future of its drivers.”
On the other hand, Albon views the rumours as an indication of his strong performance in the 2023 season.
Having performed well with the updated Williams car at Silverstone, he remains positive despite acknowledging the challenge the tight and twisty Hungaroring might present.
“Is there any positive in the rumours? Good rumours are always pleasant,” Albon shared.
“I think it just highlights that the year is going well so far. So I’m happy to hear it, and I’m not complaining.”
The situation may potentially escalate into a tug-of-war between Williams and any potential new suitor for the 27-year-old driver.
However, former Red Bull boss James Vowles, who now heads Williams, has already expressed his intention to build the team around Albon, providing the driver with a sense of confidence and motivation.
“It definitely means a lot to me. It’s always nice to hear such words,” Albon acknowledged his boss’s support during the Hungarian Grand Prix.
“It’s always great if the bosses are happy with you.”
Despite the positive sentiments, Albon remains realistic about the challenges that lie ahead, especially on circuits that may not suit the characteristics of the Williams car.
The Hungaroring’s tight and twisty layout poses a tougher challenge compared to tracks like Silverstone where Albon performed well.
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“We don’t usually go as well on these sorts of tracks,” Albon admitted.
“But I’m keen to see if the improvements are also felt here or the old problems reappear.
“But I do think it will be very difficult to get points this weekend.”