The new Alonso deal speaks volumes with one F1 option down

Carlos Sainz is leaving Ferrari at the end of the season. Fernando Alonso has signed a new deal with the Spaniard. Aston Martin was a potential option for Sainza in the future. Fernando's new deal means that the Spanish driver has one F1 option down.

Martin Brundle believes Carlos Sainz's links to Audi are creating a 'problem' for the Ferrari driver in deciding what he does next year. Mercedes have agreed a deal to replace Lewis Hamilton at the end of the current season. Brunde believes Sainiz's links with Audi are a problem for the Spaniard in deciding his future.

Carlos Sainz finished third for Ferrari at the Japanese Grand Prix. Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes team-mate ended up ninth for the Spaniard. The Briton is set to replace him in the next season at the end of the season. Hamilton is expected to take over from Sainza next season.