2023-09-08 12:34:18
Álex Palou has been proclaimed two-time IndyCar champion after a great season, but this triumph does not prevent him from setting his sights on Formula 1. Despite his controversial departure from McLaren, the Spaniard still has the ambition of one day being able to reach the ‘ Great Circus’, although you already know that that option is difficult.
Still, this year the opportunity is closer than ever. Up to three teams (AlphaTauri, Sauber and Williams) have a free seat to occupy and Palou sounded like one for all of them. However, according to specialized journalist Joe Saward, his options have been complicated due to the appearance of Mick Schumacher.
AlphaTauri seems ruled out for both, given that the discussion now for the Italian team lies in keeping Daniel Ricciardo in the team or bringing in Liam Lawson as a permanent driver, whose first two races in Formula 1 have been more than correct.
However, Michael’s son, currently a tester at Mercedes, is strongly rumored to occupy one of the two remaining spots (Sauber and Williams) according to Saward and, therefore, would close the door to Formula 1 for Palou.
Williams, Sargeant o Schumacher
Williams’ option seems to be ruled out for Palou. According to Saward himself, despite the poor performance of Logan Sargeant, Williams’ intention is to keep the American since he is a bet for the British team and a driver from their academy.
And in the case of deciding to do without Sargeant, Mercedes is pushing very hard to keep Schumacher within the orbit of the German team, so it would pressure Williams (to whom it supplies the engines) to place Mick there.
Sauber, from the most likely option to the almost closed door
Sauber, in the future Audi, was the most plausible option for Palou to enter Formula 1. Guanyou Zhou, according to various media outlets, does not have enough budget to maintain his position, which is why he remained in the team. Swiss.
And with Zhou more outside than inside, Palou could be Sauber’s bet, but Audi appeared. According to Saward, the leaders of the German brand consider Mick Schumacher the perfect driver for these two years of transition until his arrival in 2026 and his nationality would be a plus.
Therefore, the two options that the two-time IndyCar champion had to enter Formula 1 seem to dissipate, both due to the option of Mick Schumacher.
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