Photo: Christian Bruna / Pool / AFP (Getty Images)
In the paddock it is said that Mercedes has decided where its drivers are going. George Russell is believed to be teaming up with Lewis Hamilton for the next season, while Valtteri Bottas will likely get a soft landing – or rather, as smooth a landing as you could possibly want after hearing from a top formula -1 team has been deposed – and will drive to Alfa Romeo.
Bottas could take the place of 41-year-old Kimi Raikkonen, who made his alleged retirement at the end of the season official On Wednesday. In the meantime, Williams could use the services of Alex Albon, who otherwise might make the trip to IndyCar if he stays without a seat in Formula 1 again next year.
As the signature shows, there are many moving parts in this potential scenario and again nothing has been confirmed here. On request last Saturday in Belgian Grand Prix whether Mercedes would have decided between Russell and Bottas for 2022, said team boss Toto Wolff, a decision had been made. This week he added that he can’t share that yet until all the loose ends are tied. from Motorsport.com:
Wolff explained the delay in publishing an announcement “because there are stakeholders involved that we must respect”.
“As long as no contracts are signed, there is no point in announcing this,” he added.
When asked by Motorsport.com if he would like both Bottas and Russell to settle their futures before making an announcement, Wolff replied, “Yes.
“It’s not just our reputation, there are other parties involved and you always have to act with respect and care.”
Far be it from me to put words into the man’s mouth, but what “other parties” would be involved if Russell and Bottas stayed next year? As I’ve read, Wolff basically announced the swap without actually announcing it. The offers were made; Now we are waiting for the agreements to take effect.
I knock feverishly on my wooden desk as I type this with my other hand, but these are early congratulations to George Russell who did it again proved last weekend that we’re not even beginning to understand what he is capable of. I can’t wait to find out in ’22 when he’ll finally get a car that suits his capabilities.
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