Alex Albon set to compete under Thailand flag as uncertainties over WADA ban clears-Report
Alex Albon set compete under Thailand flag as uncertainties over WADA ban clears
Max Verstappen’s former teammate and 2021 Red Bull test and reserve driver Alex Albon will make his come back to F1 in 2022, after being demoted by Red Bull following an underwhelming 2020 with them, in Williams colours as a replacement for George Russell who made his move to Mercedes. The British-Thai racer took part in the 2021 Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters finishing P6 overall in the championship.
Alex Albon who raced under the Thai flag, where his mother from, though out his career in Formula 1 career, was in doubt whether he will be allowed to do that in his return to F1. The World Anti-Doping Agency [WADA], declared Thailand’s National Anti-Doping Organisation (NADO) as non-compliant with the World Anti-Doping Code in October of 2021 after they failed to amend certain
Therefore, it was ruled that the Thai flag could was ban from being flown at regional and continental events or world championships other than Olympics or Paralympics. This meant the Thailand’s Flag not being hoisted at any of Alex Albon’s potential podiums. A recent report from Motorsport.com which quote Thailand NADO saying they are “currently in the reinstatement process with WADA, with official confirmation expected to follow in due course” provides hope for Alex Albon.
Russia’s Nikita Mazepin who drives for American F1 team Hass along side Mick Schumacher will be racing under the Russian Automobile Federation for a second season in row as the sanctions against his native Russia only set to expire in December 2022.
What’s Ahead of Alex Albon in 2022
Alex Albon started his F1 career 2019 with Toro Rosso before joining Red Bull squad mid-season, replacing an inconsistent Pierre Gasly, but he also faced similar destiny as Sergio Perez replaced him for 2021 season. Following the demotion, he wasn’t able showcase much in Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters where he raced in 2021 so the 2022 season with Williams is really important for him.
Alex Albon will join Nicholas Latifi for 2022 season and will be having an intense season ahead of him with a struggling Williams who finished P8 in 2021 constructers championship. Alex Albon will not only be fighting his teammate in 2022 as he will be also facing a bunch of youngsters such who are willing to go all out for a chance to compete for titles in the future.
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Justin P Joy
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