As reported by journalist Kunal Shah on X, the Williams engineer said "Looking forward to next year, buddy!" which suggests that the 22-year-old will be back on the grid next season.
A formal announcement of Williams' choice is unlikely to come in the immediate aftermath of the season finale but if that radio message proves to be true, the 2024 grid is set.
Logan Sargeant is told that his defence on Daniel Ricciardo was one of the seasons the Aussie finished 11th and not in the points ahead of Lance Stroll.
The only crumb of comfort over the dull off-season might be the idea that next year's silly season could be complete madness with contracts expiring at the front of the grid bound to set the tone for the rest.