Alpine CEO Clears Air On Growing Fernando Alonso-Oscar Piastri F1 Rumors – “He is a Bit of the Godfather”

As the 2022 season of Formula 1 settles in, the rumors in the media and paddock about the driver market situations begin to take center stage. While most teams have already decided their lineup for the coming season, Alpine has an interesting and rather difficult dilemma on their hands.

On one end is Esteban Ocon. The Frenchman has been consistent with his performances and has signed a long-term contract recently. On the other end is Fernando Alonso. The two time world champion is still going strong and despite his unfortunate luck in 2022, his experience cannot be understated.

Meanwhile, the team has taken Australian rookie racer Oscar Piastri under their wing as a reserve driver. He has been waiting patiently to make his Formula 1 debut, and all signs are pointing towards a possible drive next season.

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The decision time is nearing and Alpine CEO will soon have to make one. The questions, however, are constantly raised to him and ahead of the Monaco GP, he revealed his thoughts on what the future holds.

Alpine CEO reflects on driver situation

Oscar Piastri is one of the most promising talents in the Formula 1 racing world. Many have touted the Australian as one with huge potential after he won F3 and F2 in back-to-back years. The Alpine reserve driver has been longing for an F1 seat ever since. But, the team already has two drivers who are looking to stay beyond this season.

Speaking of the situation, Alpine CEO Luca de Meo said, “We love Fernando very much… We are going to have to find a solution for everyone, because we also have Esteban and Oscar, who are very good,” he said. “We want to protect our drivers and seek an ideal solution for everyone.”

While Ocon has his seat secured with a long-term contract, doubts surround the future of veteran Fernando Alonso. However, the 40-year-old has maintained that he will compete in F1 for a few more years. And de Meo also revealed that Alpine value Alonso, and he is in their plans.

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“Fernando is very important in the plan. He has a lot of experience. When you have to make the team grow he is a bit of the godfather. The time for change will come. Fernando is a legend, we can’t decide to push him away as if he were just another Alpine employee, he has to want him too,” he stated.

The situation could end in a sore note for any of the three. Who do you think will drive for Alpine next year?