Fernando Alonso has offered some slight clarity over his plans for 2018, reiterating his desire to remain in Formula 1 and revealing he plans to commit to just one series next season.

The Spaniard would insist no decision has yet been taken on where he'll race next year, though recent claims of a McLaren-Renault deal being signed has led many to believe the double world champion will extend his contract for at least one more season.

However, a highly successful venture to IndyCar for the Indy 500 in May plus a free seat at Andretti Autosport, the team McLaren worked with on the one-off project, means a potential full-time switch is yet to be ruled out.

"As I said, I will think what is the best option," he told reporters in Singapore. "Whatever I do next year will be because I want to win. I will not be in any series to be fighting for top 10, top 15, nothing like that. There are many options I’m studying and looking at.

"F1 is my first and only priority. I will wait to make a decision on that before making decisions on other series. If I remain in Formula 1, it’s because I believe I can win next year."

On what that would mean for his ambition to win the Triple Crown, he added: "That (winning in F1) will ease the decision a lot because I will be in Monaco because I don’t want to lose any points there. The Triple Crown is in the background, there are three races, not only Indy."

The third piece of the puzzle is the Le Mans 24 Hours which, unlike the Indy 500, is not expected to coincide with a Grand Prix and, therefore led to the question of whether that would be part of the double world champion's 2018 plan.

"There is nothing yet confirmed. As I said, my plans did not change," he said. "The Triple Crown, to win one day, that will put me in a level as a driver that can win in any series at any time. For my fans and for motorsport lovers, they will have a fantastic 2018 season. The plan is ongoing, and very good news will come."

When that news will come, however, Alonso wouldn't say as he waits for McLaren to confirm their situation before assessing his own.

"I want to give time to my team," he said. "After the last three years with some struggles that we went through together, to have time for them to make decisions, to see the future for next year’s car.

"After they take decisions, I will take mine. I want to stay loyal at least to that. I will not make any decisions without them making any decisions first. I’m relaxed, happy, and we’ll see what’s going on in the next few weeks."

Mercedes will reconsider their future in Formula 1 at the end of the current Concorde Agreement in 2020, Daimler boss Deiter Zetsche has claimed at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

The future of the German carmaker has been questioned by some this year as their recent period of success continues. After the Monaco Grand Prix, Eddie Jordan claimed that the Brackley team would be pulling out as a works team in a few years, leading to an immediate rebuttal by Motorsport boss Toto Wolff, who described the former owner turned pundit's claim as "fake news".

However, in the next few years, attention will shift towards the long-term future with two very important parts of the F1 puzzle being negotiated.

Firstly, new owners, Liberty Media, are keen to use the renewal of the contract between all the major stakeholders to introduce significant changes, some of which may take away privileges the manufacturers currently hold.  

And secondly, engine regulations for 2021 are set to be altered in an effort to reduce the complexity and cost while increasing the sound, which have all been criticisms of the current power units.

For Mercedes, the latter is likely more important as they have been among the most vocal in ensuring the new formula retains road-relevancy and includes an element of electrification. 

Regardless, Zetsche would stress F1 remains important to the company's future strategy.   

"Formula 1 is linked to our history and our brand," he said. "It is a component that has helped us develop the brand and make it younger, so for now I do not see a change of strategy until 2021.

"The Concorde agreement will last until that date and I am not even thinking about it."

It isn't just the state of F1 that Mercedes will consider, as they, like many major manufacturers with large motorsport programs, recently revealed an altering of their focus in the coming years.

"We decided to leave DTM and start the project in Formula E," Zetsche reaffirmed. "At the moment this series is a social and PR platform, but we want to help to increase the competition between the teams."

The Silver Arrow will make its presence felt along with Porsche in the all-electric series from Season 6 which begins in 2019.

Amid a week of rampant engine speculation, it is now claimed Renault, who are expected to confirm a McLaren deal this weekend, will not renew their contract with Red Bull at the end of 2018.

The two parties have had a difficult relationship throughout the hybrid era, as the French manufacturer's inability to match the performance of Mercedes and Ferrari saw the Milton Keynes outfit lose their place as the dominant team and still struggle to compete for victories after almost four seasons.

A miserable 2015 saw Red Bull actively seek a deal elsewhere but, fully aware of the abilities the team possess, none of the other suppliers were willing to entertain the idea of supplying. That meant the Austrian drinks giant had to return to Renault but would later rebrand the engines after a sponsorship deal with TAG Heuer.

Now likely comes the news that the team has been desiring but it is Renault, who have recently agreed to supply McLaren from next year, that have reportedly triggered the eventual split by deciding not to renew their engine contract.

If confirmed, it would be quite a turnaround as Motorsport.com claims a new two-year deal had been agreed albeit not announced but that has now been cancelled in the wake of Toro Rosso switching to Honda for 2018.

The consequence will likely see Red Bull be forced to join their junior team with the Japanese manufacturer in 2019, which based on their level of improvement over the next 12 months could be disastrous or a blessing.

If it is the prior, that could have a major impact on the driver market as both Daniel Ricciardo, who is out of contract, and Max Verstappen, who has also been linked elsewhere, may well look to fast-track their exit.

The opportunities created could be numerous however, as a technical partnership similar to that Honda has had with McLaren in the past three years could be forged and the two already have an association via the Honda Racing MotoGP team.

Looking longer-term though, a Honda partnership no matter how successful may only be temporary as it has been claimed Red Bull could be bought out by Porsche ahead of a full works return in 2021, as well as an engine supplier to coincide with new engine regulations.

Formula 1 CEO Chase Carey is confident a new deal will be done to secure the future of the Singapore Grand Prix, as the city-state prepares for the 10th running of the annual night race this weekend.

Organisers have been deliberating whether to continue the event which has become one of the leading races of the year for fans and has quickly established a prestige among the drivers too for the challenge presented around the Marina Bay street circuit.  

However, high race fees and reduced attendance figures have led to questions over the viability of the Singapore race which has was placed as provisional on the 2018 F1 calendar earlier this year.

Nevertheless, Carey, whose first trip to a race occurred a year ago after it was announced Liberty Media would be buying the sport for $8 billion from former owners CVC, believes an agreement can be made.

“We haven’t concluded a deal yet but we’re having positive discussions and it is certainly our goal to try and reach a deal that works for both of us,” he was quoted by Reuters as saying in Singapore on Wednesday.

Recently, Commercial Director Sean Bratches indicated there had been some 40 notifications of interest regarding a future spot on the schedule with many following the same city-based model that Singapore uses and a model the new leadership are keen to evolve.

“We’re proud of the race, we have a good relationship and our goal is to get to a place where we build on that partnership long-term,” Carey continued. “It is certainly a spectacular setting with the city lit up, racing through the streets.

“In many ways, it’s a race that anchors our Asian strategy. Still, early days for us growing in Asia but certainly a signature race for Asia, a signature race for us globally and it’s great to be here.”

The future of the Singapore race could also benefit from the unfortunate demise of the nearby Malaysian Grand Prix which is scheduled to host its final race at least for the foreseeable future in two weeks time at Sepang.

Lewis Hamilton hopes long-time rival Fernando Alonso has the tools to fight at the front of the grid next year after three seasons in the midfield.

Alonso is widely considered one of the fastest drivers in Formula 1 but has not finished on the podium since 2014 as McLaren-Honda failed to provide the Spaniard with a competitive car.

That has led to the British team deciding to end the partnership with the Japanese manufacturer after just three seasons, a move that means the 36-year-old is expected to stay put with no vacancies at the top three teams.

Commenting on the double world champion's situation, the Mercedes driver is hopeful his former teammate can make a swift return to the sharp end of the grid, pointing out that fans want to see the best drivers in battle.

"I hope he’s got a car to fight with us next year," Hamilton told the press in Singapore ahead of this weekend's race. "That adds to the spectacle and the challenge; we want to see the best drivers and the best teams up there.

"It has been a shame not to have McLaren historically where they have been. Whether it’s with McLaren or wherever Fernando is next year, [I hope] he has a chance to be fighting with us."

Hamilton arrives at Marina Bay with a slender three-point championship lead as he eyes a fourth world title but main rival Ferrari is expected to have the edge on the tight and twisty layout.

Nevertheless, Hamilton is confident of fighting for victory if Mercedes can find the right balance.

"You can’t really overtake here, plus the cars are wider, so positioning is going to be very important, so getting the car set up right for qualifying is one of the key matters," he explained.

"If we can get the car in a place that’s comfortable, a bit like we were in the last two races, then I think we will definitely be strong in the fight."

After an impressive first season which has seen him claim two wins, Mercedes has confirmed Valtteri Bottas will remain with the team in 2018 having signed an extension to his initial one-year contract.

The Finn was whisked into the Brackley-based team at the beginning of 2017, having been the preferred choice to replace Nico Rosberg following the German's shock decision to retire mere days after winning the F1 title in Abu Dhabi.

Since then, he has proven a worthy teammate to Lewis Hamilton both on pace and in working with the Briton as Mercedes has faced a strong challenge from a Ferrari team enjoying something of a renaissance.

Though Bottas has only been given another one-year deal, with the driver market set to be blown open by the availability of a number of key names for 2019, he was obviously delighted to see his future secured for another 12 months.

"I am honoured and proud to continue to work with Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport in 2018 and to remain part of the Mercedes family," the 28-year-old said. "Together, we continue to grow stronger day by day, and by keeping up our hard work I believe the sky is the limit.

"Since joining the team in January, I've enjoyed every day working with them. The welcome and the support from every team member and all the fans has been invaluable. As a driver, I've been able to learn and grow massively, and we have already enjoyed some really good moments this season that I will never forget," he added.

"I've been very impressed by the mentality, commitment and the team spirit this team holds. Partnering Lewis has also been really good, and I'm enjoying the respect we have and the will to push this team forward together."

The relationship Bottas has been to strike up with Hamilton has been another major positive for Mercedes as the gloom of the past few years has been lifted. Though very different in terms of personality, the calm approach of the former GP3 champion has seen the two drivers have worked together, as was particularly shown in Hungary.

"We gave Valtteri a big challenge this year," Motorsport boss and former Manager Toto Wolff commented. "Joining the team at the eleventh hour, stepping up to the forefront of F1 and pairing with the sport's best driver as his team-mate. With that in mind, his results have been probably even more impressive.

"There have been ups and downs - more ups, fewer downs - and some great highlights like his two race wins in Russian and Austria. Overall, the balance of his performances and his upward trajectory made it a no-brainer for us to continue with him into 2018.

"For our team, the bonus factors are the respect and sportsmanship that have grown between our two drivers. The chemistry and dynamic between Valtteri and Lewis work and are what we need to take the fight to our competitors."

Though options were limited due to the suddeness of Rosberg's decision to retire, the drop in results at Williams last year meant some were uncertain as to whether Bottas had what it took to compete at the very front.

As it turned out, the renewed focus and motivation has seen him overcome those concerns but Bottas insists there is still plenty more he can show and aims to be even stronger next season.

"When the team hired me for the 2017 season, they took a leap of faith by putting their trust in my skills," he acknowledged," this new contract for 2018 shows that I've earned that trust.

"I'm happy to have celebrated my first race wins in a Silver Arrow. However, there's always room for improvement and I still have not shown my full potential. I will continue to work hard on and off the track, to further improve my driving, get even better results and show that putting their trust in me was the right decision.

"I want to thank all the board members, the people at the factories in Brackley and Brixworth as well as the race team and all the fans for their support and trust. It means a lot to me."

Max Verstappen believes Red Bull can challenge Mercedes and Ferrari for victory at a circuit which should play to the strengths of the RB13.

The Bulls have spent much of the 2017 season a distant third in the pecking order, but arrive in Singapore in confident mood after a good showing at Monza two weeks ago.

The team are notoriously strong in the chassis department and so should excel on the tight and twisty circuit. Back in Monaco, where downforce is critical, they were second quickest as Mercedes struggled for pace. 

An optimistic Verstappen says the team have only improved since and expects to be in contention come Sunday.

"If we look to Monaco where our car was not as good as it is now, we were already competitive, especially in the race," the Dutchman said. "So I am definitely looking forward to the weekend. We can be strong. But we need to get the setup right.

"I really think we can be a threat. A lot of corners always suit us more and street circuits as well, and not too many straights, that is perfect."

Teammate Daniel Ricciardo, who snatched Red Bull's solitary victory in Azerbaijan, sent a warning to his team earlier this week regarding his future with the team but insists they are on an upward trajectory.

"We want to win, and win more," he said. "We've fortunately got one this year... I believe we can win another. Then obviously next year to start accumulating more and fight for a title, that's what we really want.

"We're certainly going in that direction, particularly since if I look back [to the first race in] Melbourne, that feels like another season. We're in a completely different position, so progress has been good.

"I think we've got to keep that going to Abu Dhabi and then make another step across the winter to start strong for 2018."

Daniel Ricciardo has warned his Red Bull team they must be competitive against Mercedes and Ferrari in 2018, or he will look elsewhere with his contract is due to expire at the end of next season.

It is not the first time that threat has been made, with teammate Max Verstappen also acknowledging next year will be significant for his future plans as links to the top two teams continue to be made.

But while the Dutchman's frustrations have been clear, with a finishing rate of just over 50% in 2017, Ricciardo's own frustrations at being unable to compete for the championship have largely been unnoticed particularly as he has scored six podiums, including a win in Baku.

His performance at the last race at Monza also reminded many of just how good the 28-year-old is as he recovered from 16th to fourth, split the two Ferraris and was faultless, which couldn't be said for Verstappen.

Previously he has admitted his belief that he is no worse than the two title contenders Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel and now he wants his chance to prove it.

"I went through that inpatient phase [of wanting results] for sure and I am still bordering that because I don't want to leave F1 without a championship," he told Autosport as he promoted his new 'Ricciardo Kart' brand.

"At least right now, I still believe I can do that, absolutely and I am looking for it - sooner rather than later. I thought we would be in with a really good shot this year, but it hasn't turned out like that.

"It really needs to happen with Red Bull next year, at least from my point of view," he added. "I've been here for quite a few years now and I think next year we need to make a bigger step next year than we did this year, to really convince me that I can win with them."

A threat from Ricciardo to leave at the end of 2018 arguably carries more weight than Verstappen, as the five-time Grand Prix winner is out of contract with Red Bull at the end of next season while his teammate is tied down for 2019.

The charismatic 'Honey Badger' admits, however, that decision would only be made as a last resort as he looks to complete the full journey with the company that got him to where he is today.

"Do I want to win with them [Red Bull]? Absolutely," he said. "Seb [Vettel] got to complete it - he is the only guy so my heart would love to but we will see.

"I want an opportunity to be able to win week in and week out, while I believe I am still at the top."

One aspiration Ricciardo does have is to enjoy a long-lasting career at the top fighting with the drivers of tomorrow and he draws that inspiration from a legend on two wheels.

"I've never really had it before, I've never had a much younger kid [as a teammate]," he said of his current partnership with Verstappen. "I was always the younger one, or the same in terms of age and hype, so it was probably a little bit like Vettel's position with me when I came into Red Bull.

"I think Max had more hype behind him than I did!

"It is what Valentino Rossi has been dealing with for the last 10 years, I guess," he continued. "You can take it two ways. You can go, 'Wow, he is getting all the attention, this and that' and it can play with your mind and wear you down.

"But this year, in particular, he has got better but I've also acknowledged that as opposed to making excuses all the time. [I have been] trying to figure out ways I can get better, try to keep ahead of the curve - I think like Rossi has done in the last few years.

"These kids are coming and getting better and better and he has found a way to still evolve, that is where I am critical of myself but I feel I have managed to keep up with that."

Carlos Sainz has insisted his focus remains on maximising performance at this weekend's Singapore Grand Prix, despite a swathe of announcements which could include his expected move to Renault for 2018.

The Spaniard became a cog in the wheel of the McLaren, Honda, Toro Rosso, Renault story last weekend after it emerged he has agreed to join the French manufacturer, potentially from the Malaysian Grand Prix, as compensation from Red Bull to Renault for ending their engine supply deal early with the junior team.

On Thursday, the deals between the various parties which have already been revealed are expected to be announced as the F1 community gathers at Marina Bay, however, Sainz continues to stay quiet on his part.

"Obviously there is a lot going on in the media," Sainz told Autosport on Wednesday. "[But] I come here as a motivated Toro Rosso driver to score as many points as possible.

"I know there are a lot of rumours going on and a lot of things being said, but from my side, I prefer to stick to my standard. That is to focus on my weekend - and not comment too much about the future: first of all, because I'm not allowed and secondly because I think it's the best way to approach the weekend."

One unexpected beneficiary from the situation is Daniil Kvyat, as the Russian looks set to remain with Toro Rosso for another year as the man many tipped to replace, Pierre Gasly, could well end up joining him.

"Whatever is going to happen, it's going to be good for the team," he commented. "I think there are only good things ahead for this team."

"The future needs to be sorted out because that is a big topic to get sorted," he added. "Then I think as soon as that is sorted, I will have news. The sooner the better, but I cannot pressure the team at these difficult times."

Ahead of this weekend's Singapore Grand Prix, one story is set to dominate the conversation as McLaren's split with Honda to join Renault for 2018 is set to be announced.

The ramifications are already being discussed as to whether it is a switch that will benefit the British team, with many believing the performance of Red Bull is a reason for optimism that can see them become competitive once again.

Upon hearing of the deal, however, former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone would blame McLaren for the failure of the Honda partnership after doubting whether much would change with the French manufacturer.

"The Renault deal is all done. Alonso staying is super news," he was reported by the Daily Mail as saying. "But I can't see why McLaren will be any happier with Renault than they are with Honda.

"It wasn't Honda's fault things didn't work out, it was McLaren's. Every day they had a fight about everything, instead of working with them, which was a little bit stupid."

Ultimately, while McLaren was setting Honda a near-impossible task of trying to build an engine capable of fighting with Mercedes with technology that is ground-breaking, the inability to produce a power unit that was simply reliable and had a reasonable amount of performance was the reason the partnership was becoming increasingly untenable.

Will that change with Renault? It's hard to say as they too have had their own share of reliability problems and will struggle to close the gap to the leading two suppliers in the next few years, but McLaren will at least have a better chance of more consistent and stronger results than they would with Honda.

Meanwhile, at Red Bull, the arrival of Honda at junior team Toro Rosso is also leading to speculation that perhaps both teams could move over if the Japanese manufacturer gets their act together.

Yet that is now being overshadowed by rumours the Milton Keynes operation could be bought by Porsche and run as a full works team from 2021, with the German carmaker expected to join as an engine supplier.

Motorsport magazine and Sky Sports contributor Mark Hughes is reporting the team would unlikely change much in terms of personnel, with Christian Horner remaining as Team Principal and the current design team would also remain in place.

However, operations out of the engine factory in Weissach would be linked to those in the UK in the same way Renault operate with their engine plant in Viry in France.

"Red Bull might consider that its F1 programme of the last decade has achieved its marketing aims and that it no longer needs the vast expense of running an F1 team (or even two of them)," Hughes wrote. "It could continue as a sponsor to the works Porsche team and benefit from that association, but without anything like the same current spend."

The two companies have also linked up previous in endurance racing with Mark Webber and Brendan Hartley both Red Bull-backed drivers who have driven for Porsche in the WEC, while current Motorsport Advisor Helmut Marko won at Le Mans with the company in 1971.

Does this speculation mean the Toro Rosso/ Honda tie up is purely to satisfy the FIA, who want to see the Japanese manufacturer remain in F1? Or is Honda a serious alternative the Austrian drinks giant could consider in the years to come? Either way, it's an interesting first path leading to the likely circus that will be the engine market for 2021.