Fernando Alonso will be confirmed as a McLaren driver next week, with sources suggesting the announcement will come on the Friday of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The Spaniard has kept quiet about his future, fuelling speculation he could end up at Lotus, Mercedes or even buy a backmarker team himself. However the strongest and most feasible rumour, that of joining McLaren, is due to come to fruition next season.
McLaren are believed to have agreed a two-year deal for 2015-16 with a one-year option for 2017 should performance objectives be met on both sides.
The deal has been signed, but the Woking squad are still deciding who will partner the two-time champion.
Kevin Magnussen is seen as the favourite to stay as McLaren have nurtured the young Danish rookie. However he might not be the smart choice and that’s something which has torn McLaren’s management in two.
Half are believed to back Magnussen, whilst the other half are pushing for Jenson Button to remain.
The Briton has outscored his younger team-mate by almost double (106 to 55) and his experience could be key to the new McLaren-Honda partnership.
Alonso’s arrival might also be Button’s saviour. Sources close to McLaren have hinted that Alonso is keen for Button to stay for at least one more season to help McLaren’s recovery.
Whoever they choose, it’s likely both will be announced together in a little over a week, allowing for Ferrari to openly confirm Sebastian Vettel’s arrival.
