Free practice for Herta at AlphaTauri if it helps for super licence

The possible arrival of IndyCar driver Colton Herta to Formula 1 is keeping tempers high in the paddock. Earlier it was announced that the American's test at Alpine will not go ahead as Red Bull are beginning to lose patience. Although the final decision lies with Red Bull, AlphaTauri team boss Franz Tost says he is doing everything possible to help Herta come to Formula 1, according to Formula1.com.

The 2023 seat race is still in full swing. There is still one seat open at Alpine now that Alonso is leaving for Aston Martin and several drivers seem to be eligible. Nyck de Vries, for instance, has put himself in the French team's spotlight with his strong performance at Monza, but Formula 2 driver Jack Doohan and former Formula 1 driver Antonio Giovinazzi are also said to have been called up for a private test at Alpine. However, AlphaTauri driver Pierre Gasly might also be allowed to test. The French driver would be allowed to make the switch to Alpine if Herta gets the necessary super licence.

Gasly stays if Herta does not come

Tost is clear when it comes to the possible change of drivers in his team: he thinks Gasly will stay attached to AlphaTauri if the FIA does not issue the superlicence to Herta. Asked whether Red Bull junior and Formula 2 driver Liam Lawson would be an option, the team boss kept quiet. That decision lies with Red Bull and not in his hands. However, he does hope that the FIA will make the decision soon, so that the teams know where they stand and can also start focusing on next season already.

Tost reveals that his team will do everything asked to support the granting of the super licence. "If it's necessary to run in FP1 then we will run him in FP1."