Double world champion Fernando Alonso is set to join Ferrari in 2010 with a decision coming as soon as next weekend at the Japanese Grand Prix, reports said Monday. Speculation has been rife in the Formula One paddock of an impending move and the driver himself said his mind was made up.
"I don't think the podium changes the decision on who I drive for next season," he said after finishing third for Renault at the Singapore Grand Prix. "I have taken the decision already. You will know soon." The respected autosport.com website said lawyers had been working hard on the last few details of Kimi Raikkonen's release from his contract with Ferrari, a move that is likely to pave the way for the Finn to return to McLaren.
It said everything could be sorted out by next weekend, with Alonso partnering Felipe Massa, now back in training after the severe injuries he sustained at the Hungarian Grand Prix in July. "I think that as soon as we are ready we will let you know. We don't want to wait too long," Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali was quoted as saying. When asked if that announcement could come as early as Suzuka, Domenicali said: "It is a possibility, but it is not guaranteed."
Renault's stand-in managing director Jean-Francois Caubet said he would be sad to see Alonso leave. "I think Fernando will miss Renault and Renault will miss Fernando," he said. Once the Alonso announcement is made, autosport.com said Renault was expected to confirm that Polish driver Robert Kubica will lead its team in 2010. Elsewhere, Rubens Barrichello is reportedly fighting to stay at Brawn GP, with Williams driver Nico Rosberg tipped to replace the veteran Brazilian.