Albon yet to discuss Red Bull F1 future with Marko

Alexander Albon says he is yet to discuss his future with Red Bull Formula 1 advisor Helmut Marko as he continues to wait on news for 2020.

Albon has impressed since being promoted from Toro Rosso into Red Bull’s senior team over the summer break, outscoring teammate Max Verstappen and recording a best finish of fourth at the Japanese Grand Prix earlier this month.

Red Bull advisor Marko previously said a decision would be taken following the Mexican Grand Prix whether Albon or the driver he replaced, Pierre Gasly, would take the second Red Bull seat for 2020, but no announcement has been made yet.

Albon said on Thursday in Austin that he was yet to hold proper talks with Marko regarding his plans for next year, but stressed his focus lay on his on-track performances instead of his future.

“Not really no, no real comments [from Marko]. It’s just do my thing, keep going, of course he gives advice on areas I need to work on and that’s it really,” Albon said.

“It’s just a continuation each weekend, and of course he wants the best result as well.

“I haven’t put too much thought into it. Of course I want to be in the team next year, that’s an inevitable goal, of course it would be nice to know, but not something I’m too worried on.

“In either case I feel I have made a strong case to stay in F1 next year, whether it be Toro Rosso or Red Bull.

“I just want to focus on these races and see how it goes.”

Albon was subject to praise from five-time world champion Lewis Hamilton following the race in Mexico, having battled him through the opening stages of the grand prix.

“It’s nice for Lewis to say something like that, someone anyone my age looks up to. It’s very nice,” Albon said.

“It’s just part of the story. But of course in the end it’s nice for him to say, but I still have to impress some other people as well!”

“I’ve said it a few times, on my side it’s focusing on the races, and if they’re happy with the results then of course they’re going to keep me, or I’d like to think they’re going to keep me for next year.

“I’ve still got to work on it, to improve, there’s more in there, so just pushing for the next races.”

Additional reporting by Julianne Cerasoli.