Finn in discussions with Williams about 2016 extension
Tuesday 25 August 2015 14:23, UK
Valtteri Bottas has slammed the “unnecessary” and “unfair” rumours which have swirled about his F1 future in recent months.
In flat contradiction of incessant speculation the Ferrari team were poised to appoint Bottas as Sebastian Vettel's team-mate, with reports last month in Italy going as far to say that the Scuderia and Williams had agreed on a buy-out fee for Bottas, Ferrari confirmed ahead of this weekend's Belgian GP that they will keep Raikkonen for 2016.
"It has been unnecessary because most of it has been untrue," complained Bottas when he faced the press at Spa. "It hasn't done my relationship with the team any good. Those type of rumours are not fair."
Although Bottas refused to confirm or deny whether his management representatives had held talks with Ferrari, the 25-year-old said he was relieved that the confirmation he wouldn't be transferring to Ferrari, the team directly above Williams in the Constructors' Championship, was now official.
"It's easier now for me, for Williams and for Kimi," said the Finn. "Now there are just facts and no rumours and l think this [Raikkonen's retention] proves that what a lot of what was said was rumour. Nothing has changed for me."
Bottas has yet to put pen to paper on an extension with Williams but with a paucity of alternative seats available, it appears just a matter of time before he re-commits.
"As a driver you want to know as soon as you can. It will be nice to know but there is also no mega-rush," said Bottas.
"For next year we are still discussing, so there is no confirmation on that. I feel like l have done a good job with the car. I want to be in a quicker car but l think for next year we can do with it Williams if l stay here."
