After winning the Formula 3 and Formula 2 titles in consecutive years, Oscar Piastri is fulfilling his role as Alpine’s reserve driver this season, alongside an extensive private testing programme.
Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso is expected to continue at the Ensonte outfit beyond the end of the current campaign, and coupled with Esteban Ocon’s long-term contract, the French team has been open to loaning Piastri to another set for next year.
Williams has emerged as the most likely destination for Piastri in 2023, perhaps replacing Nicholas Latifi, who is struggling to match new teammate Alexander Albon’s form so far this season.
At Saturday’s press conference ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, Alpine boss Otmar Szafnauer said the team had “some options” on Piastri but there was “no need to rush” into deciding on his future.
“We will take our time and take a look at the right time in the silly season [time of rumors about drivers’ contracts] and make those kinds of decisions,” added the French boss.
Asked if he thinks Piastri will race in F1 next year, Szafnauer was blunt in his answer, simply saying: “Yes.”
But the head of Alpine was also reserved about revealing the possible existence of agreements: “We don’t talk about the details of the contracts we have with the drivers, that’s something we never do.”
“So as much as I would like to tell you, I don’t think I can, but what I do say is yes, that is the plan [for Piastri to be in F1 next year].”
Williams boss Jost Capito acknowledged that Piastri was “prepared to go into Formula 1” and that he was “certainly one of those on the list”.
Latifi’s struggles in the early part of this season have led to suggestions he could be replaced by the Australian midway through the year, but the German has assured Williams will finish the year with his current line -up, given the deals in place.
“We don’t have any other plans,” Capito said. “Both have a contract for the season and our plan is to fulfill it.”
Asked by Motorsport.com about speculation linking Piastri to a mid-season Williams debut, Szafnauer said: “I’ve read the same thing and it’s hard for me to predict the future on that, and I’d rather not.”
“But I don’t know more than you,” said the Alpine manager.
