De Vries thanks Verstappen: 'Later that week I was in Austria with Marko'

Nyck de Vries says the decision to sign a contract with AlphaTauri for 2023 was "obvious". The Dutchman was also in talks with Williams after his impressive racing debut in Italy, but the choice was ultimately made quickly.

Just after the Italian Grand Prix, De Vries was spotted in Austria with Helmut Marko. The rumours that the Dutchman would go to AlphaTauri in 2023 grew stronger as a result. Marko actually had IndyCar driver Colton Herta in mind, but the American did not get an exception from the FIA for his super licence. After the impressive performance at Monza, the Red Bull Racing advisor had his eye on De Vries.

The Dutchman picked up two points at the Italian circuit when he crossed the finish line in ninth place. The 27-year-old driver filled in at the last minute for Alexander Albon, who was unable to compete due to appendicitis.

De Vries thanks Verstappen

"Max no doubt put in a good word for me with Marko. Later that week I was in Austria. That's how fast it went. On the other hand, of course we were still in talks with Williams. I was of course still going to test for Alpine. The clearest decision then is just obvious," De Vries says in conversation with Viaplay.

Team boss Franz Tost has already admitted that the decision to hire De Vries was quickly made after his performance in Italy. The Dutchman has now built up an impressive CV, but the result in the Williams was ultimately the deciding factor. Who will be Alexander Albon's teammate is not yet known, but with De Vries not set to come to the team in 2023, it is becoming more likely that Logan Sargeant will be trusted by Williams.