Silly Season overview: Big shuffle expected after Raikkonen exit

With the decision regarding Mercedes' coveted second seat still pending, the Formula 1 rumour mill is working overtime this week. A move by George Russell combined with the possible retirement of Kimi Raikkonen will, according to the rumours, create a frantic shuffle of seats, opening the doors to the premier class of motorsport to two familiar names.

After George Russell's impressive qualifying at Spa and virtually free podium finish, Valtteri Bottas ' future with title contender Mercedes seems to be even more unsure. According to rumours, his switch to Alfa Romeo is almost a certainty. The contracts of Kimi Raikkonen and Antonio Giovinazzi at the Ferrari sister team will expire this year.

According to rumours, both Raikkonen and Giovinazzi will have to make way for replacements in 2022. But who is being lined up for the second seat, next to Bottas? Freshly crowned Formula E champion Nyck de Vries, who was already rumoured to be offered a contract at Williams.

Not Indycar after all?

Then, only the seat that will be vacated by George Russell at Williams remains up for grabs. It is assumed that Nicolas Latifi will stay on, with Red Bull protégé Alexander Albon lined up to get a seat next to him. The driver did everything possible to secure a return to Formula 1 in 2022, but also was forced to look for alternatives, including Indycar. Currently, the driver is still working for Red Bull in the DTM.