2022 is arguably one of the most important seasons in recent F1 history. The sport will introduce its biggest regulation changes that will promote closer racing with new less-aerodynamically sensitive cars. But it is also an important year for most of the drivers as they will be out of contract at the end of the season. Drivers such as Fernando Alonso, Carlos Sainz, and Sergio Perez are some of the big names who will have to find a place in F1 for the 2023 season.

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Who are the drivers out of a drive in F1 after the 2022 season?

Drivers such as Alonso, Sainz, and Perez are all reportedly on a one-season deal with their respective teams; while drivers like Pierre Gasly, Nikita Mazepin, and Nicholas Latifi have the contracts expiring in 2022.

Let’s take a look at what the future might hold for these drivers come next season.

Fernando Alonso

The two-time world champion surprised everyone with his stellar comeback in the 2021 season. He even got his first podium since 2014 with the Alpine team. But with Ocon contracted till 2024 and Piastri knocking on the heels, Fernando might need one of his vintage seasons to keep his seat. But if anyone can do it, then it’s the two-time world champion.

Carlos Sainz

The Spaniard was one of the drivers of the season in 2021. He notched up 4 podiums and finished in P5 in his first season at Ferrari. Although he is yet to sign his contract for the 2022 season, it is likely that it would get another one-year deal. But Sainz might still be with the team in 2023 and his only real competition for his seat is Mick Schumacher.

Sergio Perez

Perez helped Red Bull to challenge for the constructors’ championship in his first year. But like every Red Bull driver other than Verstappen, his future after the 2022 season with the team is unclear. If he continues to perform and improve his qualifying results, then he will surely get another season.

Can Pierre Gasly find another team in 2023?

Pierre Gasly has been the standout driver of the last two seasons. He has been impressive since returning to Toro Rosso/AlphaTauri in mid-2019. But his chances of winning races or the championship are very limited with the team. With another consistent 2022 season, he would look to find a more competitive seat in F1.

The other two drivers out of contract after the 2022 season are Nikita Mazepin and Nicholas Latifi. But it is highly unlikely that either of the drivers will lose their seat in Haas and Williams respectively, as they bring a lot of capital to their teams.

It would be an interesting drivers’ market in the mid-season in 2022. Expect fireworks from the F1 teams as they would look to recruit the fastest drivers for themselves.

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