Alpine seem to be disinterested in Oscar Piastri

Jack Doohan suddenly seems to have a prominent role within Alpine. The Australian made his debut in Mexico during the first free practice and has been seen in the French team's pit box for several races. Who is missing each time? Oscar Piastri.

Officially, Oscar Piastri is Alpine's test and reserve driver. Since the Australian announced his move to McLaren in the summer - and the legal battle that followed - the relationship with Alpine has been cold. Piastri has disappeared from the picture altogether. Nobody in the paddock seems to know the exact status of the youngster, who is seen as a huge talent.

The Race went to investigate the matter and didn't get much further either. No one in the Alpine camp wants to clarify Piastri's status. "I think our legal teams are discussing that now," team boss Otmar Szafnauer responded. "There will be more next week. So, ask me in Brazil." The chances of Piastri again being seen in an Alpine seem ruled out. Piastri has reportedly been sent on holiday and is also no longer doing any work in the simulator. Early termination of his contract, is not logical. In that case, Piastri could already join McLaren during the test in Abu Dhabi.

Fernando Alonso - also under contract with Alpine - would be given permission by the French to drive for his new team Aston Martin already during that test. Nyck de Vries would have clearance from Mercedes to then join AlphaTauri. And Piastri? He might just not get permission to do some mileage in his new employer's car before 2023.