“It would be the logical step”– Helmut Marko believes that Valtteri Bottas in 2022 would have no space for him in top teams.
Valtteri Bottas’ days are speculated to be over at Mercedes, with George Russell appearing to be the top contender to oust him from the seat at the Brackley based team.
Helmut Marko has now tried to make sense of the rumours and believes that the change in Mercedes’ lineup is inevitable, as the world champions would now like to reap the benefits of their investment.
“It would be the logical step,” Marko told F1-Insider. “You can’t string him along any longer. Otherwise, the funding no longer makes sense, even if Hamilton won’t be happy.”
Meanwhile, Russell has talked about his desire to continue with Mercedes and would soon open up a dialogue with the team about his future.
No space in Red Bull for him
Marko believes that the 8 time Grand Prix champion would not be welcomed to his team if he knocks on the door, as there is no space for him, and rather suggests he look for the potential vacant spot in Williams.
“Bottas doesn’t have to call us,” Marko explained. “There is no space. Actually, I can only imagine a swap with Russell. I think Williams will be the only option for him.”
Bottas started his Formula 1 career with Williams in 2013 before making a switch to Mercedes in 2017 after the shock retirement of Nico Rosberg.
Mercedes have always been transparent about Bottas’ role in the team, where he is more of an unofficial deputy of Lewis Hamilton. Though, recently, the Finn has shown a desire to win the championship.
But with the current trends, it seems unlikely, as he is way behind the duo of Hamilton and Max Verstappen in the drivers’ championship race.
