Testing at Alpine for several rookies
Alpine is still looking for Alonso's replacement. While Pierre Gasly was rumored, the possibility cooled off with Colton Herta's situation. The latter, along with Nyck de Vries and Jack Doohan, will perform tests in Hungary with a 2021 Alpine.
After Alonso’s departure and the Piastri situation, Alpine still hasn’t found the ideal replacement to complete their team. While Gasly was close to the team, his arrival is no longer on the table. Colton Herta, who was supposed to replace him in case of departure, still doesn’t have his super license and is far from obtaining it. He is missing 7 points to have the adequate number to compete in F1.
Alpine has therefore decided to organize tests at Hungaroring in Hungary with 3 drivers who could make it to Formula 1. They will be driving the A522, which was victorious last year in the hands of Esteban Ocon.
The first driver is Nyck de Vries. The recent replacement for Albon at Williams made a strong impression at the Italian Grand Prix. He finished 9th and thus won his first two points. He also surpasses his teammate from the Grand Prix, Latifi, who still has a blank scorecard.
The Dutch driver informed Williams about this trial. He conveyed to them that Alpine was his first choice and, therefore, put the signing of a contract for the team on hold.
« Formula 1 is a very dynamic world, and that’s why it’s difficult to estimate what my chances are. What happened on Sunday undoubtedly gave me a boost. But it’s not for me to decide who will go in their car. Whatever happens, no one can take away what happened in Monza. »
Other candidates
He will be accompanied by Colton Herta and Alpine Academy’s F2 driver, Jack Doohan. Herta is not in the French team’s plans for a seat in 2023, unlike Jack Doohan and Nyck de Vries.
The manufacturer would like to assist AlphaTauri by testing Herta’s speed and technical feedback. If this is successful, it is possible that the exemption for a super license would be supported by Alpine, which would free Gasly from Red Bull.
The next Alpine driver is about to be known, which would allow the team to plan for the next year.
