At least four teams are reported to be considering Daniel Ricciardo should McLaren be tempted to replace him with Alpine defector Oscar Piastri for the 2023 season.
Ricciardo is contracted until the end of next season, and has been clear about his desire to see it out despite his struggle for consistency. McLaren have publicly supported the Australian, but chief executive Zak Brown revealed earlier this year there are "mechanisms" in place to cut ties early if wanted.
And he may be tempted to do exactly that, amid reports that the team has been in negotiations with Piastri's mentor Mark Webber. Given Piastri's stunning refusal of a 2023 seat with current employers Alpine, it is believed the F2 champion already has a seat lined up elsewhere, most likely with McLaren.