Red Bull owner Dietrich Mateschitz has ended speculation that Fernando Alonso will be racing for Red Bull in 2008.
“Red Bull Racing and Scuderia Toro Rosso have four drivers under contract,†he explained. From what I hear, Alonso is speaking to other teams about a one-year only deal – such a deal is out of question for us. We would prefer to wait a year and prove that we can build a car which is capable of attracting one of the best Grand Prix drivers for 2009.”
Mateschitz then explained that his team might be an attractive option for the Spanish driver in the future, however he made it clear that any signings would be done on a long-term basis only. “Of all teams which Alonso would have to chose, we for sure would be an alternative with big potential – from his point of view, it is logical that he is looking for a contract that leaves him as much flexibility as possible.
“But that leads us into a conflict in interest between driver and team. We are looking for a two-year deal with an option for a third. We are looking for a common period of solid build-up.”
