Three drivers have emerged at the top of the list to potentially replace the unwell Daniel Ricciardo in Sunday’s 2022 season opener. If he doesn’t, Lando Norris will have a substitute teammate for the Bahrain GP. However, it is reported that McLaren also made an enquiry to Alpine about potentially releasing the French team’s reserve Oscar Piastri – who, like Ricciardo, is Australian. “They wouldn’t even have to change the flag on the car,” joked team boss Otmar Szafnauer. “It would be great if Oscar could gain some experience like that if McLaren needs him, but he’s our reserve driver first and foremost,” he added.

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