F1
EXCLUSIVE: Valtteri Bottas Hits Back at Critics, Eyes 2025 F1 Seat Amid Tight Market
EXCLUSIVE: Valtteri Bottas Criticizes Skeptics with ‘Short Memories’
Valtteri Bottas is optimistic about landing a spot for the 2025 Formula 1 season, even though his opportunities are dwindling.
In an exclusive interview with Lewis Larkam for Crash.net in Austria, Valtteri Bottas emphasized that he is "not done" with Formula 1 and remains determined to secure a spot on the 2025 grid.
One of the Finnish drivers is among several whose contracts will not be renewed next season. Due to Sauber's decision to sign Nico Hulkenberg from Haas, either he or his teammate Zhou Guanyu will be out of a driving position.
Though seats are filling up fast, Bottas is optimistic about securing a spot on the F1 grid for the next season. Before this weekend's Austrian Grand Prix, he shared with Crash.net that he thinks he has "three options" left.
"There are still chances," he mentioned. "I believe there are currently more than two, probably around three. One option is definitely here."
"We're continuing our discussion. We just need a little more time. It's positive that there are various options available, and I also have my own priorities."
While he didn't specify the exact teams he had in mind, the likely candidates are Williams, Alpine, and his current team, Sauber.
Bottas indicated that he is holding off until Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz, who is set to leave the team, makes his choice. Sainz reportedly has proposals from Williams, Alpine, and Sauber.
When questioned about the possibility of not having a racing seat for 2025, Bottas responded, "I don't feel like my time in the sport is over yet."
“I believe I still have many years left in my career and a lot to contribute to the sport and whichever team I join. That’s how I feel. I’m not prepared to stop just yet.”
According to statistics, Bottas stands out as the top free agent on the driver market, boasting the highest number of wins and pole positions. However, despite being 34 years old, he has not yet secured a position.
He acknowledged the current driver market situation, confirming, "Yes, it's true that there are free agents at the moment. I hope this will benefit me."
In this sport, it's easy for people to forget quickly, but those who are truly aware understand my capabilities. That's what I need to believe in—that this will ultimately work out for me.
"It's not just about the athletic performance; other factors come into play. Your nationality, whether you have a sponsorship deal, and similar aspects can influence outcomes. It's part of the sport, even if it isn't always fair."
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