Albers on verge of new MF1 contract

(GMM) Christijan Albers is on the verge of extending his F1 contract with the Midland team beyond the end of 2006, according to his manager.

Lodewijk Varossieau, attending MF1's Rotterdam event on Sunday, is quoted by the 'Formule 1 Race Report' publication in Holland as admitting that the Silverstone-based squad is 26-year-old Albers' 'best option' for next season.

Recent speculation in Albers' native country, however, also hinted that contact with BMW-Sauber and Japanese team Super Aguri had taken place.

MF1, meanwhile, is believed to be in conversation with impressive test driver Adrian Sutil about 2007, possibly as a replacement for Portugal's Tiago Monteiro.

'Formula 1 Race Report' also revealed apparent team discussions with GP2 driver Nelson Piquet Jr.