Formula 1 | Alfa Romeo F1 will decide on its 2nd driver after Brazil

Alfa Romeo team boss Frédéric Vasseur said a decision on the choice of the 2nd driver should be taken after the Brazilian Grand Prix in Sao Paulo.

Alfa Romeo has already signed current Mercedes F1 driver Valtteri Bottas for a multi-year contract, but the seat alongside the Finn remains vacant.

It is the only place remaining on the grid for next year’s Formula 1.

IndyCar frontman Colton Herta had been linked to the seat during talks over the takeover of Sauber by Andretti. But his prospects ended with the end of those same talks.

This leaves Formula 2 title contender and current Alpine F1 junior driver Guanyu Zhou as a favorite.

Speaking after Friday’s practice at the Mexico City Grand Prix, Vasseur said: « Now that we are a little less in the spotlight (with the buyout), we will make a decision in the next few days, probably after Brazil. »

On who was in contention, Vasseur pointed out that he « does not want to make any comments » due to the risk of spreading rumors.

« We must remain calm in this decision, it is not easy, we will make the decision soon and you will be informed as soon as the decision is made. »

Vasseur sympathized with the fate of current driver Antonio Giovinazzi, who admitted to loathing uncertainty, but stressed that the Italian’s situation is no different from other people in Formula 1.

“Of course there is pressure but everyone is under pressure in the paddock, from mechanics to engineers to drivers. Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have enormous pressure on their shoulders too. For our drivers. , we have to deal with the pressure by making the right choices. «