Alonso Could Leave McLaren: Briatore

The 2018 F1 season has just wrapped up the 4th race in the calendar at Baku, but the F1 silly season talks are still raging. McLaren driver Fernando Alonso is considered as one of the drivers who could stir up the pot.

For the moment, Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo holds the key to the driver market. The Australian is weighing up his options between Red Bull, Mercedes and Ferrari.

The Australian admitted that he would relish the idea of racing alongside Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes. However, he also has his eyes on Ferrari, where he would be reunited with Sebastian Vettel.

‘I don’t think Seb is scared’

“At the moment, Seb is definitely happy with his teammate,” Ricciardo said. “Anyone can see that.

“But I also don’t think Seb is scared.  I think I know Sebastian and the competitor in him would love a chance for redemption after being beaten in 2014.”

Even if Ricciardo pens a deal with Ferrari, there will be a major shakeup at Mercedes. At least that is what former Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone thinks. The Englishman suggested that Hamilton may be getting tired of F1. But Mercedes boss Toto Wolff responded to the comments.

“Bernie always throws hand grenades,” said Wolff. “It’s his style.  But the fire and the desire are still burning in Lewis.”

Briatore was in Baku for the race and currently managing Fernando Alonso’s career. The flamboyant Italian dropped hints that Alonso may be getting tired of waiting for McLaren to come good.

“Very bad,” Briatore said. “They should give Fernando a TV in the car so at least he can be entertained in the race.

“Will Fernando stay at McLaren? I don’t know,” he added.  “But with an engine like Renault’s – a very good engine – the team must improve.

“Last year the problem was Honda but this year I don’t know. The problem is that the car is too slow,”.