Williams has pushed back to next month the announcement of its 2018 driver line-up, but Sergey Sirotkin remains the team's most likely choice.
The Russian's surprise presence with Williams and subsequent good performance at last month's post-season Abu Dhabi tyre test has put the 22-year-old in pole position for a drive also targeted by Robert Kubica.
Based on performance alone, the Pole was apparently told by Williams' management that he was no longer a contender for the 2018 seat alongside Lance Stroll.
But Kubica's father, Arthur Kubica, insists his son and his management team are still fighting for a deal with the Grove-based outfit.
Reports indicate that Williams is in the process of finalising Sirotkin's contract, with both parties now focused on minor details and the preparation of a formal announcement scheduled for after the new year.
Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
Aston Martin performance director Tom McCullough has shed some light on why the team’s former…
The FIA has issued a pivotal Technical Directive to F1 teams ahead of this weekend’s…
The abrupt removal last week of FIA race director Niels Wittich with just three races…
Oscar Piastri has confirmed that McLaren’s team orders—dubbed the "Papaya Rules"—have been largely relaxed, giving…
The forever young Jacques Laffite turns 81 today, but the years haven't aged this pure…
The neon lights of Las Vegas are set to illuminate the Formula 1 world once…