Romain Grosjean reckons F1 driver market ‘saga’ not over yet 

Romain Grosjean has predicted more shocks in the Formula 1 driver market “saga” for 2021 after Sebastian Vettel’s exit from Ferrari set off a chain reaction of moves. 

Vettel’s unexpected departure from Ferrari at the end of the season was recently confirmed after talks between the two parties over a new deal broke down without agreement. 

Ferrari swiftly announced Carlos Sainz as the four-time world champion’s successor on a two-year deal, while McLaren subsequently moved to sign Daniel Ricciardo from Renault as the Spaniard’s replacement. 

With no drive currently lined up for 2021, Vettel’s F1 future is uncertain, while Renault finds itself needing to fill the void left by Ricciardo. 

And Haas driver Grosjean, who said he would have “played the puzzle a little bit differently”, believes more surprises could follow. 

"I was surprised by some of the decisions in some ways. I probably would not have done the same," the Frenchman said on the Sky Sports F1 vodcast.

"But I think one of the big surprises is Sebastian. I was quite convinced he would carry on with Ferrari. So that was the big surprise.

"Then things unfolded themselves in an interesting way. I don't think it's over, there's still a seat at Renault, and you hear the rumour of [Fernando] Alonso. Why not?

"I think there are still loads of things going on. I don't think the saga is quite over yet.”

One of the drivers linked with the vacant Renault seat for 2021 is two-time world champion Fernando Alonso, who previously had two spells at the Enstone team with which he claimed both of his world titles in 2005 and 2006. 

Grosjean spent seven races as Alonso’s teammate during the Spaniard most recent campaign with Renault in 2009 and reckons his return would be good for the sport. 

"He's obviously a great driver, he's always been trying to work very hard," he explained. 

"But he already had a comeback at Renault and obviously it was not the best car in 2009 - I can testify. But that didn't really work out.

"It would be positive for sure, but also takes a seat away, and there aren't that many seats.

"It's interesting, also with the financial situation of everyone, teams and all companies around the world are not in the best situation right now.

"Let's see what comes up."