Red Bull has reportedly made first option to Alex Albon for 2026

Former Red Bull driver Alex Albon could return to Milton Keynes in 2026 with a first option offer on the table.

Red Bull has reportedly made first option to Alex Albon for 2026

Alex Albon and Max Verstappen (images via IMAGO)

Alex Albon had a short stint with Red Bull back in 2019 to 2021. However, due to some unfortunate events, the driver was later ousted from the driver seat and was replaced by Sergio Perez in 2021. Regardless, as the teams prepare for the 2024 season, Red Bull has presented the 27-year-old with a great offer from 2026 after a rumored contract for 2025.

According to reports, Albon is provided with a first option to race at Milton Keynes from 2026. However, previously, the rumors over the 2025 deal were seen as a way to get Mercedes’ attention ahead of the season. Regardless, Alex Albon’s new deal with the Austrian team would be a multi-year contract. The British-Thai driver has not been provided with a hard-bound contract. Rather it is just an option under which Red Bull could acquire the driver in their arsenal by 2026 if they wish to do so.

YouTube video

However, with Lewis Hamilton‘s bombshell move to Ferrari, Albon might be one of the contestants for the Mercedes seat. The Thai driver might consider his options before making a move as he is locked in with Williams through 2025. Hence, the 27-year-old might need to seriously rediscover his options and finalize his decision to race in some top teams like Red Bull and Mercedes.

FS Video

Alex Albon’s current focus is fully on racing with Williams

Alex Albon has his priorities straight for the 2024 season as he detailed his plans for the season. The 27-year-old claimed that his personal progress was very important to him. Hence he would consider his options going into the next season. Hence, time will tell about the career path that the British-Thai driver would finalize for himself.

My whole focus is on Williams and that's where I see myself. The rate of progression to me is also very important, so time will tell.
Albon told motorsport.com.
Alex Albon
Alex Albon (Via IMAGO)

Apart from this, Albon felt that he was very close to ‘peaking’ in his career with having options to move to teams like Mercedes and Red Bull. Additionally, the 27-year-old explained that he felt the need to be provided with cars capable of fighting at the forefront and producing podium and race-win finishes down the season.

Regardless, Albon wants to achieve great results within Williams and continue racing for the team ahead of the 2024 season. Depending on the opportunities and results that Williams provides for the British-Thai driver will decide his future within the team. For now, the 27-year-old prepares to fight in the mid-order alongside Williams in the 2024 season.

In case you missed it: