Alpine’s 2025 Driver Hunt Narrows: Zhou Guanyu in Focus as Sainz and Bottas Talks Stall

Discussions stalled with two prominent Formula 1 drivers, leaving the 2025 Alpine seat open, with "one name" being heavily suggested.

The race to fill Esteban Ocon's spot at Alpine has begun.

The producer has faced a challenging year, culminating in the recent decision to cut Ocon for the 2025 season.

Despite ongoing challenges, the appeal of an open Formula 1 seat has drawn interest from multiple drivers, yet two have been already disqualified from the running.

Craig Slater of Sky Sports has reported that Carlos Sainz engaged in discussions with Alpine.

"I've heard that it's not happening."

Valtteri Bottas has engaged in conversations with Alpine as well.

"However, those discussions did not advance."

What's the situation with Mick Schumacher? He's participating in long-distance racing events for the squad.

Sources indicate that he is not a top priority for securing a Formula 1 racing seat next year.

"A name that frequently reappears is Zhou Guanyu."

"He was formerly part of the Alpine academy. Additionally, there are financial incentives that could make him an attractive option for them."

Initially, it opens up opportunities for Alpine in the vast Chinese market, which stands as the largest car market globally.

"Recently, a new automotive partnership has been formed between Renault, the parent company of Alpine, and the Chinese firm, Geely."

Zhou and his team member from Sauber, Bottas, will both see their contracts expire this year.

Sauber has secured Nico Hulkenberg for their team in 2025, ahead of their transformation into Audi the following year.

Thus, it appears that either Zhou or Bottas will be facing unemployment.

Alpine leader Bruno Famin explicitly outlined his criteria for Ocon's successor.

"He insisted that the nature of the relationship is irrelevant; what truly counts is the professionalism."

"Qualified drivers are required."

Ocon frustrated his team leaders by colliding with his teammate Pierre Gasly on the first lap in Monaco.

Jack Doohan, serving as Alpine's backup driver, along with Victor Martins, a Formula 2 racer for the same team, are both in the running to take over Ocon's spot.

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