"I hope he can fulfill some kind of Ricciardo-like role at Red Bull"

In all the commotion surrounding the news of the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix that is added to the calendar, the discussions surrounding Alexander Albon continue unabated. For example, there is already a lot of discussion about who his replacement will be.

In Formula 1 cafe, Albon is already virtually written off, and the conversation is mainly about the consideration between Nico Hulkenberg and Sergio Perez. Tsunoda is also on the agenda, but it seems more likely that he will make his debut at AlphaTauri. Jeroen Bleekemolen was asked who he would put next to Max Verstappen in the second Red Bull Racing car.

'I think Hulkenberg is the best choice. He has experience, and I hope he can play a kind of Ricciardo role. That he can get close, although he will probably be short. Though he could break down mentally as well. You're next to the best driver. If the car doesn't work the way you want it to, it's just very difficult.'

Tim Coronel adds: 'If Hulkie can live up to the expectations - Max needs someone to cover for him, who can help in strategic situations'. In addition, Coronel thinks the hype for Perez might be too big to get him to Red Bull, something that might not help the peace within the team.