The update on the pilots’ contracts

The “Silly Season” will soon be able to begin, and with Sergio Perez’s signing to stay at Red Bull for another 2 seasons, it is interesting to look into the case of the other drivers: who remains? Who leaves? Who is in danger?

Lewis Hamilton – End of 2023

The situation of the British driver at Mercedes is questionable. After a late contract renewal in 2021, with rumors of a departure that ultimately turned out to be false, Sir Lewis finds himself in a difficult position at the beginning of this season. With a W13 car that falls far short of Mercedes’ expected performance, his contract expires at the end of next season, but the possibility of a departure at the end of 2022 cannot be ruled out.

George Russell – Long-term contract

There is no specific date for the end of George Russell’s contract, but given the newcomer’s strong start to the season, it is unlikely that a departure of Hamilton’s teammate is planned, on the contrary.

Max Verstappen – End 2028

World champion, consistent winner, and always in the points, it is clear that the Dutchman has established himself as the leader of Red Bull for years to come. So much so that he is the driver with the longest contract on the grid and one of the highest salaries. It will take an earthquake to dethrone Verstappen from the Milton Keynes throne.

Sergio Perez – End 2024

The news was announced today, following his fantastic victory in Monaco and his strong presence in the World Championship fight, it was undoubtedly expected that Checo’s extension with Red Bull would be signed. It remains to be seen if tensions may arise between him and his teammate if the championship battle intensifies.

Charles Leclerc – End of 2024.

The child prodigy from Monaco had the chance in 2019 to formalize the longest contract for a young driver at Ferrari. Now capable of competing in the world championship against Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez, the Monegasque has confidence in his team, despite the setbacks in Barcelona and Monaco.

Carlos Sainz – End 2024

Author of an excellent first season within the Scuderia, everything seemed to be going well for the Spaniard. Unfortunately, the start of the season is not going exactly as desired, with numerous mistakes and a lack of rhythm compared to his teammate. Sainz will have to bounce back in a big way to keep his place at Ferrari in the years to come.

Daniel Ricciardo – End of 2023

Unfortunately, it is very uncertain whether Daniel Ricciardo will continue with McLaren next year, despite his contract supposed to end later. Considering the results at the Woking team, apart from a victory in Monza, things are not looking good for him. According to Jacques Villeneuve, his career is in great danger.

Lando Norris – End 2025

Opposite atmosphere for Lando Norris, he seems well settled in his team and easily establishes himself as the leader of his stable. His contract is not in jeopardy, and his presence in the team is helping to greatly improve the car, which was struggling compared to last year. It remains to be seen the progress McLaren can make in their quest for victories to convince Lando Norris of a longer-term project.

Esteban Ocon – End of 2024.

Our French is well-established at Alpine, its results are satisfactory and it does not suffer from Fernando Alonso’s competition. However, its team is not up to the expectations we have for them, still finding themselves in the middle of the pack after years of promises. But no worries for Ocon, as his seat is not threatened.

Fernando Alonso – End of 2022

Another driver at the end of his contract, Fernando Alonso’s future is very uncertain, but given the high level of performance of the double world champion, it is unlikely that he will leave the sport anytime soon. However, his stay at Alpine is not guaranteed to continue next year, but few details are available. A move to McLaren following a possible departure of Ricciardo would be a solution for the Spaniard.

Pierre Gasly – Undefined

Pierre Gasly is under Red Bull’s supervision until the end of 2023. With Perez’s contract extension in the main team, it will be difficult for the Frenchman to stay there. However, a potential opportunity could arise at McLaren due to Daniel Ricciardo’s potential departure, as well as at Aston Martin given Sebastian Vettel’s uncertainty.

Yuki Tsunoda – Undefined

Uncertainty is also present on the Japanese side, as he who was not at the level of his teammate in 2021 is having a much better start to the season, but he needs to continue improving to prove that he deserves his place. For now, there are no rumors circulating about his transfer, and with the growing number of young drivers waiting for their chance in 2023, Yuki Tsunoda’s seat is under threat.

Sebastian Vettel – End 2022

Another world champion potentially on the way out, Sebastian Vettel is not living a dream at Aston Martin, despite scoring a point in Monaco. It is highly unlikely to see Vettel continue the adventure at Aston, as the car is far from competitive and the problems are piling up. With his contract coming to an end, a retirement for this Formula 1 legend is sadly possible.

Lance Stroll – End 2022

Let’s not kid ourselves, but as long as Lawrence Stroll remains the owner of Aston Martin Racing, it is unimaginable to see his son go elsewhere. His contract expires at the end of the season, but an extension is to be expected. The only scenario that could lead to Lance leaving is if his father leaves the team.

Alex Albon – End 2022

Returning after a short break, Albon has not lost any of his talent or speed, and manages to take his poor Williams much further than it could on its own. Bringing in a few points for the team, Alex shouldn’t be leaving anytime soon, unless his team decides to replace him with a young driver. Nothing is certain for now, but if he continues in the right direction, his near future should be with Williams.

Nicholas Latifi – End 2022

Unlike his teammate, Latifi doesn’t bring much to his team, except for additional bills. Also at the end of his contract, it is possible that 2022 will be the last year for the Canadian driver, who is still struggling to find his pace with his Williams. However, the sponsors he brings are very interesting for the team, which is facing major financial difficulties, so the decision is not as simple as that.

Valtteri Bottas – Long-term contract

After serving Mercedes faithfully and effectively, Bottas has made the decision to join Alfa Romeo for 2022, a choice that is proving successful for him. The C42 often brings him into the points, and even ahead of his former teammate and friend Lewis Hamilton. Given the strong performance he is delivering, it would be surprising to see Bottas leave at the end of the year, unless he decides to retire in favor of a young talent such as Théo Pourchaire, who is currently seeking a seat at Alfa Romeo.

Guanyu Zhou – End of 2022

It is too early in the season to give a clear opinion on the first Chinese driver in history, but we can note a point scored in his first race, as well as acceptable performances for a rookie in a team usually at the bottom of the standings. His sponsors are also a very interesting asset for his team, but we will have to wait for the season to progress a little more before considering whether or not to extend his contract.

Kevin Magnussen – Long-term contract

After a short hiatus, the Danish driver returns to Haas to replace Nikita Mazepin and starts his season off well, often placing his Haas in the points and sitting comfortably in 10th place in the driver standings. Coming back to a team in decline since 2020, he managed to inject some energy into the American team and can continue his season without risking losing his seat.

Mick Schumacher – End 2022

It is very difficult to attribute many qualities to Michael’s son at the beginning of this difficult season. Suffering from comparison with his teammate, he makes a lot of mistakes and costs his team a lot. His contract is not guaranteed to be renewed, and it is possible that the name Schumacher will no longer be present on the grid next year. It is up to him to show that he is worth it because the season is still long.