Former team boss Günther Steiner remains deeply involved in the workings of Formula 1. As an analyst for German RTL, he frequently shares his candid views on the premier class. He is also a popular guest on various podcasts. Recently, the eccentric American shared his insights on the driver market.
In the podcast ‘The Red Flags’, Günther Steiner scrutinized the driver market. Especially now that Formula 1 has reached the summer break, transfer news is coming out constantly. However, there are still plenty of seats available for 2025. Sauber still hasn’t appointed a teammate for Nico Hülkenberg, and Mercedes and Alpine are still searching.
“I think Andrea Kimi Antonelli is going to Mercedes, that’s pretty clear to me,” says Günther Steiner. The 17-year-old Italian is a popular choice to replace Lewis Hamilton. He made his debut in Formula 2 this year, where he has so far held his own against teammate Oliver Bearman. James Vowles does not rule out that Antonelli could move up to Williams earlier than expected. Logan Sargeant, beware.
Valtteri Bottas: A Valued Asset
“I suspect Sauber will retain Valtteri Bottas,” continued Steiner. “As Audi, you simply have to bring in the best available driver. The same applies to Alpine. Bottas has won many races in his career. At the moment, he can’t show that because the car doesn’t allow him, but otherwise, he has always been a good driver. Hülkenberg and Bottas are both very good racers.”
Uncertainty Surrounding Alpine
Regarding Alpine, Günther Steiner is not entirely sure. Jack Doohan seems to be on the verge of a contract with the French racing team, although several drivers are vying for Esteban Ocon’s seat. “We interviewed Flavio (Briatore) on the grid for RTL and my colleague asked for an update,” Steiner explained. “‘Everyone is in the race for that seat,’ he responded. So I’m just repeating what he said, I have no opinion on it.”
Mick Schumacher: A Potential Option
“Kevin Magnussen could be an option, but they also have Jack Doohan and Mick Schumacher,” listed Steiner. “But please don’t ask me about Schumacher, otherwise I’ll get criticism again and then I can’t sleep,” he concluded with a laugh. The former team boss of Haas worked with the youngest Schumacher for two years and previously advised Alpine not to put him in the car. RTL colleague Ralf Schumacher did not let it go and threatened to boycott the broadcasts with Steiner.