Albon cools Red Bull return chances despite Horner praise

Alex Albon has revealed he is "always" messaged by Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner after his former boss was full of praise for his seventh place at the Canadian Grand Prix.

The Thai-British driver put Williams' upgrades to full use at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve last time out, holding off a number of rivals to secure his best finish of the season and propel Williams to eighth in the Constructors' standings.

Albon was released by Red Bull to take up the drive at Williams last season, though Horner has clearly been keeping contact with his former driver.

"Christian is always messaging me, telling me 'good job'," Albon told media, including RacingNews365.com.

"It is always nice to have that relationship with an old Team Principal. It was a great weekend for us and it was obviously nice for Christian to say that."

This isn't a short-term situation

Red Bull's dominance at the top of the sport has seen Max Verstappen race into a 69 point lead over teammate Sergio Perez, who has come under increasing pressure after a run of poor performances which include a failure to reach Q3 in the past three races.

Albon spent 2021 as Red Bull's reserve and development driver having been dropped following his own struggles alongside Verstappen.

Asked if he was tempted by a return to the Milton Keynes-based outfit, Albon insisted: "My main focus is with this team. This isn't a short-term situation, I am here for the long run.

"I am really enjoying working with the team, being where I am. I feel like we are on a journey and I want to continue this journey.

"Let's see how these next few years unfold. For now, very happy with where I am."