Alfa Romeo and Williams have expressed interest in recruiting Alexander Albon for the 2022 Formula 1 season, according to Red Bull team boss Christian Horner.
Albon was transitioned from a full-time seat to a position as test and reserve driver for 2021 as he was replaced by Sergio Perez.
While he is currently competing in DTM, Albon has said that he is looking for a return to a full-time position in Formula 1.
Alfa Romeo will have a vacancy to fill after Kimi Raikkonnen announced he will be retiring at the end of the current campaign, while Williams could likely have an open seat in connection to George Russell’s potential move to Mercedes.
When asked during the Friday press conference ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix, Horner said that both teams have expressed interest in taking on Albon in 2022.
“I think Alex deserves a seat in Formula 1 and I think there’s quite a bit of interest in him for next year,” said Horner. “We’ll do whatever we can to try and enable that. I hope that nothing prevents him from realising one of those opportunities.
“He’s a talented driver and is subject to George moving, and now Kimi is retiring, that does open up opportunities. I’m sure it will get resolved over the next week or so.”
When pressed if there is an aim to provide Albon with a spot at AlphaTauri, Horner replied:
“No, we are looking at external teams. Williams and Alfa Romeo have both expressed interest and we’re keen to see him back racing in Formula 1. Hopefully that can get resolved over the next few days.”
Red Bull has already confirmed the line-up of Max Verstappen and Perez for 2022, while AlphaTauri looks set to retain both Pierre Gasly and Yuki Tsunoda for another year.
“Look, we’re trying to help him get a seat,” said Horner on Albon. “I think he’s good enough that he doesn’t need to be taking a funding package with him, but we’re looking to enable that he gets a drive.
“So wherever we can help, we certainly will and as I say, hopefully it can be resolved in the near-future.”
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