Jost Capito (Williams): “Oscar Piastri is on our list”

At a press conference, Jost Capito and Otmar Szafnauer spoke at length about the future of Oscar Piastri, who belongs to Alpine but could move to Williams next year.

Published on 18/06/2022 à 21:09

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Jost Capito (Williams): “Oscar Piastri is on our list”

Oscar Piastri at Williams in 2023? © Florent Gooden / DPPI

If there remained any doubts as to the tenure ofOscar piastri en Formula 1 next year it looks like they will be lifted. Usually, press conferences involving the main teams are much more interesting when these gentlemen discuss the economic and political sides of the sport rather than when they address the question of the drivers. But the Montreal press briefing was an exception.

While it is insistently announced at Williams replacing Nicholas latifi for 2023, Oscar Piastri was at the heart of the conversations. If Alpine has not officially decided who to Fernando Alonso or the Australian will form a pair with Esteban Ocon in 2023, team principal Otmar Szafnauer gave some clues, praising the merits of the Spaniard.

However, the American showed all his confidence in Piastri starting in F1 next year. To the question: »Do you think Oscar will be present in Formula 1 next year? », his response burst out: " Yes. » Then he continued, relaunching on the signing of a possible pre-contract. “We don’t talk about the details of our pilots’ contracts. As much as I would like to tell you things, I can't. What is certain is that this is the plan (whether he is in F1, Editor’s note). »

Alpine doesn't want to rush with Piastri

The operational boss of the stableenstone reaffirmed that Piastri was under contract with the A arrow and that different options were possible. “There is no reason to rush. We take the time and at the right time, when the silly season comes, we will look at what is best. »

About twenty minutes later, it was the turn of Jost Capito, Williams' team principal, to speak on the subject. “One thing is certain, Oscar is ready to go to F1. And he’s on our list, of course.” As for a possible arrival of the Australian during the 2022 season, Capito has however closed the door. “We have two drivers under contract and we intend to complete these contracts.”

Oscar Piastri will therefore undoubtedly have to continue to be patient, contenting himself for the time being with his position as a reservist. But the wait will be shorter now, knowing that every week he gets a little closer to starting in F1.

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