Reports: Alfa Romeo F1 Considering Nico Hulkenberg as Potential Teammate for Valtteri Bottas for 2022

Alfa Romeo have confirmed that Valtteri Bottas will join them next season, replacing the departing Kimi Raikkonen. However, a question still looms over the Swiss-based team of who will get the second seat? Will Antonio Giovinazzi still be behind the wheel?

A few prominent names have popped up. Drivers such as Nico Hulkenberg, Nyck de Vries, Alex Albox, and F2 sensation Théo Pourchaire have been linked for a drive next season with Alfa Romeo.

Who will drive next to Bottas at Alfa Romeo in 2022?

With one of the seats confirmed for next season, the F1 community turns its head to the second seat at the Vasseur-led team. Whether Giovinazzi will stay or bring another driver to replace the Italian driver? However, being part of the Ferrari driver academy, the Scuderia would hope that Alfa Romeo retains him for next season.

As reported by Auto Motor Und Sport, the team would like to bring in Red Bull’s Albon. However, it is stated that he would likely sign for Williams. Another candidate for the seat is Dutch Formula E champion, de Vries, who notably has been in touch with team boss, Frédéric Vasseur.

Nico Hulkenberg has also been linked for the drive. An interesting detail about the German driver is that he has worked with Vasseur during his junior career.

Pourchaire has been impressive in the junior series and on his recent test in Hungary. However, the Frenchman is still 18-years-old. Regardless of who gets the seat, it is reported that only a one-year contract will be offered.

Watch Story: From Jimmy Kimmel to Ellen: Lewis Hamilton on Talk Shows

What does Vasseur have to say about Bottas?

Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur has praised his new signing by stating what he brings to the Swiss-based outfit. The boss also looks back at the days they previously worked together and can’t wait to start this new chapter with the Finn.

As quoted from Auto Motor Und Sport, “With him we have won a strong team player who brings a lot of experience from the front end of the starting grid. Valtteri was recently an important part of a team that has rewritten the record books. He can pin four constructor titles on the flags.”

“Our connection goes back a long time. We have already celebrated successes together in Formula 3 and GP3. His talent has always been clearly recognizable since then. I look forward to seeing how he will soon use his skills for our team,” Vasseur concluded.

With years of winning mentality at the Brackley-based squad. Can the Finn bring that to Alfa Romeo in 2022? Let us know what you think in the comments below.

Read More: Alfa Romeo F1 Boss Makes Bold Hamilton & Vettel Comparisons After Signing Bottas