Musical chairs: the 2019 driver line-up takes shape

Williams

Fans of Robert Kubica (POL) Williams Reserve and Development Driver in the grandstands

PROBABLE

Sergey Sirotkin
From what we hear on the paddock gossip line, Sergey Sirotkin is on a multi-year contract with Williams. That said, the details haven't been confirmed so we can't yet say if he'll definitely still be at Grove next year. As the only driver yet to score championship points this season, the Russian rookie looks exposed if better options present themselves to the team; but given its current form, how likely is that to happen?

POSSIBLE

Lance Stroll
The money (estimated at 15 million euros per year) that Lance Stroll brings in to the team through his personal financial backing has been crucial to Williams' survival. They would dearly love to retain him, but Stroll might decide that his career is best served elsewhere - perhaps with a move to Force India if his billionaire father Lawrence becomes an investor at the stricken team. It remains to be seen if Williams can persuade the Strolls not to take a walk.

Robert Kubica
Many fans were deeply disappointed that former F1 driver Robert Kubica didn't get a full time race seat for 2018. They will be hoping that next year will be different. Certainly the Pole has been able to spend more time in the car and overcome any lingering issues stemming from the injuries sustained from his rallying accident. 12 months on he's certainly in a better position to finally claim his reward.

George Russell
Much as the case with Force India, Formula 2 front runner George Russell's Mercedes backing makes him a good fit for the Williams customer team. The manufacturer could even find a way to sweeten the deal when it comes to engine supplies if they're so inclined to support their junior driver's promotion into Formula 1. But the team has been criticised for opting for rookies rather than veterans who can help guide their development, so maybe it's the wrong place at the wrong time for Russell?

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

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