An overhauled 2017 grid
The Monza weekend saw some major changes in the transfer market, with the announcement of the departures of Felipe Massa and Jenson Button, and the arrival of Stoffel Vandoorne. But there are still areas of uncertainty.
Monza is traditionally the place for major announcements, and 2016 was no exception. It started on Thursday when Felipe Massa announced that he would be retiring at the end of the season.
Some were mentioning the possibility that Jenson Button might return to the team of his beginnings for the latter part of his career. However, a firm and definitive denial came this Saturday with the announcement that he became an ambassador for McLaren and that 2017 could just be a sabbatical year. This strategy, in any case, allows Stoffel Vandoorne to make his F1 debut with McLaren.
The seat vacated by Felipe Massa therefore remains open. The favorite in the press room is Lance Stroll, who is already a development driver for the team and has been performing well in F3. He also notably has the merit of being the son of Lawrence Stroll, who is considerably wealthy.
The other topic of conversation is Sergio Perez. Indeed, while Sahara Force India never misses an opportunity to remind everyone that they have a contract with their two drivers, the Mexican might be tempted by a move to Renault to become the number 1 driver with a manufacturer. But he is not the only candidate for such a position, as Valtteri Bottas is also interested in such an opportunity. When interviewed by us in the Monza paddock, the Finn refused to comment on his future.
Depending on the decisions of the various parties, Mercedes might also look to advance its two young protégés, Pascal Wehrlein and Esteban Ocon, who are currently training at Manor. The current trend would be to bring the German to Sahara Force India while Esteban Ocon would join Frédéric Vasseur at Renault. Naturally, this would open up two available seats at Manor, which has been progressing significantly in recent seasons.
Finally, one last seat is at stake at the end of this season, that of Daniil Kvyat at Toro Rosso. Indeed, the small Scuderia has already confirmed Carlos Sainz, but the Russian doesn’t seem to be mentally recovering from his mid-season demotion from Red Bull. At the same time, Pierre Gasly is delivering strong performances in GP2. If the Frenchman were to win the title, he would be an obvious candidate for a full-time seat, his stated goal.
From our special correspondent in Monza
With the participation of www.racingbusiness.fr
