F1 Today | Alonso at the heart of driver market as Verstappen's title bid unravels

Fernando Alonso could once again become one of the key figures in the Formula 1 driver market, with fresh speculation linking the two-time world champion to a return to Alpine. According to F1 journalist Joe Saward, Alonso could consider leaving Aston Martin if the team fails to demonstrate convincing progress with its new Honda-powered package by the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort.

Saward also reported that Franco Colapinto is interested in securing a seat at Williams, potentially paving the way for a return to the Grove-based outfit after previously leaving the team for Alpine. Such a move could trigger a wider reshuffle, with Alonso taking Colapinto's place at Alpine, while Carlos Sainz could emerge as a candidate for Aston Martin should he decide Williams is not making enough progress to justify staying.

Both Alonso and Sainz face important decisions over the remainder of the summer break, with Sainz having repeatedly voiced frustration with Williams and recently hinting that he could look elsewhere.

Max Verstappen is unlikely to produce another late-season title comeback, according to former Formula 1 driver Jolyon Palmer. After watching the Dutchman overturn a significant championship deficit last year, Palmer believes this season's situation is very different and does not expect Verstappen to work his way back into contention before the end of the campaign.

Speaking on the F1 Nation podcast, Palmer said he considers Verstappen's title challenge to be over, despite admitting he could once again be proven wrong after what happened last season. He recalled how the Red Bull driver managed to silence his critics with a remarkable fightback in 2025, but suggested that repeating such a recovery this year is highly unlikely. Palmer added that the more important question now is whether Verstappen still has faith in Red Bull's long-term direction and believes the team can return to the front.