Bottas's future

[Dare]

He's had a outstanding year so far IMO.Only thing
I can fault him with is not slowing and backing
Vettel up to Hamilton at Baku.


https://www.jamesallenonf1.com/2017/06/no-2018-guarantees-for-uncomfortable-bottas-from-mercedes-f1-boss/

[lkjohnson1950]

Wasn't his job and the team told him so. They wanted 2ND and maybe a shot at 1ST.

[Scott]

I think he's done a pretty good job so far.  But I get it that Merc have to leave the door open in case Alonso, Vettel or Verstappen come knocking (although Marko has poo-poo'd the idea of Max switching next year as he doesn't have a performance clause).

[Willy]

The best Finn on the lot right now.

[Dare]

Scott do you really think Hamilton wants Alons,Max,Vettel or
anyone that will race for wins? I will admit Lewis and Seb would
be a interesting pair

[Andy B]

When you look at any of those pairings as a team principal would you want the hassle?

[lkjohnson1950]

I agree, why would Wolff want the hassle of duelling prima donnas? So far, Bottas is much like Rosberg, close in qually but off on race pace. The difference is Bottas seems content at this stage to be #2. That's perfect for Merc; he's able to win when Lewis has trouble and a solid 2nd or 3rd when Lewis is winning and he's happy about it.

[Scott]

Toto already had a few years of duelling prima dona's, not that he managed them very well.  I don't think Hamilton has any contractual say in who joins the team, and he's been a pain in the arse long enough that they have to be prepared for his departure anyway.

But I would much prefer that Bottas stay.  I totally agree with your comments, but I don't think like an Austrian with a thick accent.

[John S]

Some sources are saying that Mercedes main board has put a 'persona no grata' status on Alonso because of his involvement in the McLaren spygate affair.

Seems Merc picked up most of the tab for the 100 million fine from the FIA and they are not in a forgiving mood.

   

[Scott]

Geez, that's a bit old, isn't it?  Those Germans hold a grudge a long time.  I think Alonso has redeemed himself since then in the way he shows almost nothing but respect and loyalty to those he works for, drives with, and how he presents himself to the media.   

[Dare]

Remember last time Lewis and Hamilton were pardners. They were so
close it cost one or the other the title.

[cosworth151]

I think that there is a good chance that Alonso will be in an IndyCar next season. It might even carry McLaren-Honda badging if McLaren can't round up a new F1 engine partner.

[lkjohnson1950]

Rumor is Merc is refusing to negotiate with Bottas until after the season's over. Seems like maybe they have something up their sleeve,... maybe. It could actually see Bottas out of a ride for '18, unless he replaces Massa back at Williams.