McLaren could be now just days away from announcing a new deal for Fernando Alonso.
Team boss Eric Boullier said earlier at Suzuka that he expects the Spaniard to eventually sign a 2018 contract.
Marca sports newspaper quoted Alonso as saying: “Next week I think everything will be clearer.”
Alonso’s former Renault teammate, Nelson Piquet jr, commented: “Alonso is a great guy. For me he is one of the best drivers on the grid and we keep in touch.
“He continues to perform at a high level at his age.