Albon extends Williams stay

Alex Albon will remain at Williams next season after the team triggered a multi-year extension to his contract.

The Thai-British driver joined the Grove-based outfit to make his return to F1 at the start of this season, after spending a year on the sidelines as Red Bull test and reserve driver as well as competing in the DTM championship in an AlphaTauri-liveried Ferrari.

Upon returning to the sport, Albon has impressed alongside Nicholas Latifi in an uncompetitive Williams FW44, with points finishes at the Australian and Miami Grands Prix.

The 26-year-old's performances had been good enough for Albon's name to be touted as a potential replacement for Sebastian Vettel at Aston Martin - before Fernando Alonso was announced - and Daniel Ricciardo at McLaren.

But Williams has moved to secure Albon's future at the team for 2023 and beyond, with an aim to building a package capable of scoring regular points in F1's congested midfield.

A statement from Albon read: "It’s really exciting to be staying with Williams Racing for 2023 and I look forward to seeing what we can achieve as a team in the remainder of this season and next year.

"The team is pushing hard to progress, and I am really motivated to continue this journey and further develop our learnings together."

Williams team principal and CEO Jost Capito added: "Alex is a tremendous driver and valued member of Williams Racing, so we’re thrilled to be able to confirm we will be working with him on a long-term basis.

"Alex brings a great blend of skill and insightful learnings that will help bring the team greater success in the future.

"He’s a fierce competitor, has proved a popular and loyal team member and we are delighted that he will provide a stable base for us to continue to develop in this new F1 car era."

🚨 Announcement 🇹🇭

Our number 23 stays for 2023 and beyond!@Alex_Albon commits his future, signing a multi-year contract 👊#WeAreWilliams pic.twitter.com/MJ4aMXoFZj

— Williams Racing (@WilliamsRacing) August 3, 2022

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