If there is one driver whose future is uncertain for 2022, it is Valtteri Bottas. With the rumor that George Russell will replace him for the next season grows, the Finn will have to act quickly to stay in Formula 1.
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Not all teams have confirmed their driver line-up for 2022. Should the Silver Arrows replace Bottas, his only option is to drive for another team.
What other team could Valtteri Bottas drive next season?
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Bottas joined the Silver Arrows in 2017 and replaced world champion Nico Rosberg after announcing his resignation. Since then, the Finn has clinched nine race wins and 50 podiums with the defending champion in four seasons.
Bottas, however, is at a unique point in his F1 career. While he’s had the worst start to a Formula 1 season since joining Mercedes in 2017, his contract expires at the end of the season. Additionally, reports suggest that George Russell will replace Finn in the Silver Arrows next season.
Formula 1 F1 – Spanish Grand Prix – Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain – May 6, 2021, Valtteri Bottas of Mercedes before the Spanish Grand Prix REUTERS / Albert Gea
Here are some teams the Finn can play for next season if Mercedes doesn’t renew their contract.
Williams: The Finn drove for the British team from 2013 to 2016. In these four seasons Bottas showed an excellent pace and took nine podium places. With Russell being the favorite to replace the Finn, the Williams seat becomes vacant for the Finn. Additionally, Williams wants to build a project with a new CEO in Jost Capito to bring her back to the top of the grid.
Alfa Romeo: With Kimi Raikkonen and Antonio Giovinazzi out of contract this season, Alfa Romeo could be looking for new drivers. In addition, an aging Raikkonen does not have as many years in Formula 1 as Bottas. So there could be an opportunity for one Finn to give way to the other.
Alpine F1: Although Fernando Alonso’s contract runs until the end of 2022, Esteban Ocon’s contract expires this season. However, it seems unlikely that the French team will let either of them go unless Mercedes calls the 24-year-old.
DIVE DEEPER
Red Bull excludes Bottas
Although Sergio Perez signed a one-year deal with Red Bull for the season, Dr. Helmut Marko made a commitment from Botta for 2022.
“Bottas doesn’t have to call us. There is no space, ”said the 78-year-old.
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While Bottas’ future at Mercedes may look bleak, nothing is certain for 2022. Additionally, the new cost cap and technical regulations could help smaller teams like Williams and Alfa Romeo move up, which could help the Finn stay competitive on another team for the next season.
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The post 3 F1 teams that should try to get Valtteri Bottas from Mercedes first appeared on monter-une-startup.
