Silly season: Hulkenberg out at Renault, changes at Alfa but not Racing Point?

With the Formula 1 summer break upon us the rumour mill is rife with the biggest stories in the world of motorsport. Today we look at potential changes at Renault, Alfa Romeo and Racing Point as the 'Silly Season' gets underway!

Where to start with Renault? They wanted to be closer to the top three and made a huge statement by signing Daniel Ricciardo, but it's been a bit of a disappointment so far for the French team.

Some changes will be needed for Renault to return to form, but perhaps not in the driver market. Whilst Renault has a driver academt stacked with talent, it's arguable that none of them are ready for F1.

Nico Hulkenberg is the more likely driver to leave the team, with reports linking him to Haas and to other series such as Formula E or WEC, although the German says he has no interest in moving away from F1.

There is a similar question over Alfa Romeo right now, with the future of Kimi Raikkonen safe after he signed a two year contract last year, but Antonio Giovinazzi's career with the team in a bit of doubt.

The Italian has shown promise in his first full F1 season, but only has one point to his name, compared to Raikkonen's 31. Admittedly, the Finn is much more experienced and Giovinazzi had a haul of points taken away from him after both Alfa's were penalised in Germany.

Whilst it seems like there should be a doubt over Giovinazzi's future, there have been no reports or rumours linking him with a move away or another driver coming in, so we wouldn't be shocked to see him get another season.

There are no such problems at Racing Point however, who look set to confirm Sergio Perez and Lance Stroll for another season.

The Mexican hasn't had his best year, failing to score points in the last eight races, but has said that he is close to a new contract with the team he has raced for since 2014, when they were called Force India.

Lance Stroll's future has never been in doubt and if the Canadian can improve his qualifying pace then he could be a midfield force to be reckoned with for Racing Point next season.