The summer break of Formula 1 has turned the focus from the track to the driver market, with several key figures reportedly engaging in contract negotiations that could significantly impact the grid in the coming seasons.
In new reports, Fernando Alonso, Ollie Bearman, Nico Hülkenberg and Sergio Perez have all been identified as teams quietly preparing for 2027 and beyond. The latest rumours indicate that talks are heating up around the paddock, although none of the moves have been officially confirmed.
Alonso, Bearman and Hulkenberg Headline Latest F1 Rumors
Reports in the paddock suggest that Fernando Alonso is looking for a salary of approximately $46 million per season to extend his contract with Aston Martin for a further two seasons. The Spaniard is thought to be earning around $35 million a year. The salary increase would make him the third highest-paid driver in Formula 1 after Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen.
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Meanwhile, the rumors that have been swirling around about Alonso returning to Alpine don't necessarily mean that he's on the verge of a move. Rather, it may give him a better negotiating hand with Aston Martin, as they will know that other clubs are interested in him.
In the meantime, journalist Marc Limacher says that Ollie Bearman has turned down a big deal with Aston Martin and is set to continue his Ferrari Driver Academy contract until 2028.
The same report also says that Nico Hulkenberg is in talks for a two-year contract extension with Audi, which further suggests that the veteran German will continue to play a key role in the manufacturer's Formula 1 campaign.
Sergio Perez's Future Could Be More Complicated Than Expected
Reports from Japan indicate that Bottas has a secure two-year contract with no early-exit clauses, while many were anticipating that he would be in a precarious situation. However, Sergio Perez is said to be on a one-year deal, which could make his position more precarious.
Perez's management is also said to be in talks with Williams, which immediately sparked speculation about the long-term future of both Perez and Carlos Sainz.
None of these are confirmed, but Formula 1's transfer rumors seem to be building up steam. As several big contracts are nearing decision points, the struggle for seats could be as interesting as the race itself when it returns from the summer break.