Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport announced that it has agreed to a new deal with Valtteri Bottas for the 2018 Formula 1 season.
Valtteri joined the team in early 2017 and has started 13 races for the Silver Arrows so far. Having scored 197 points, the Finn currently holds third place in the drivers’ championship. Since joining Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport, the 28-year old driver has claimed his first Formula 1 wins (Russia, Austria) as well as his first F1 pole positions (Bahrain, Austria). This season alone, Valtteri has so far secured nine podiums – equalling the number of podiums he scored in his Formula 1 career before this season.
Having a stunning 2017 season it is no surprise that Mercedes plans to keep him as both Bottas and Hamilton have a good relationship, on and off the track. Keeping a team in sync is crucial and with the confirmation of Bottas, it puts off rumours that Sebastien Vettel would sign on with Mercedes for the 2018 season.
“We gave Valtteri a big challenge this year: joining the team at the eleventh hour, stepping up to the forefront of F1 and pairing with the sport’s best driver as his team-mate. With that in mind, his results have been probably even more impressive,” said Toto Wolff.
I’m happy and honored to confirm that I will be racing with @MercedesAMGF1 in 2018!https://t.co/dSraVCOBDt#VB77 #MBfamily pic.twitter.com/0UmBndXtxP
— Valtteri Bottas (@ValtteriBottas) 13 September 2017
Bottas has taken up all the challenges thrown at him and finished with great results which makes it a tough decision if Mercedes were to look for a driver next year. With the 2017 season remaining, there is a high chance if both Bottas and Hamilton can maintain their performance, Mercedes will be able to win the championship.
