Valterri Bottas has signed a new deal with Mercedes, extending his stay with them till the end of 2021. Bottas, who is currently in his fourth year with Mercedes, having joined since 2017 explained that signing the new deal was “pretty easy and smooth”, revealing that the plans had been in place since June but things had to be delayed due to the coronavirus.

Speaking on the extended contract, Bottas said, “I’m very happy to stay with Mercedes in 2021 and build on the success we’ve enjoyed together already. The past few years have been all about continuous improvement. I’m confident that today I’m the strongest I’ve ever been, but I can always raise the bar.” He also explained how he has been fighting for the world champion title, which he finished in second place last year, and hopes that he would finally get it this year.

Last weekend at the British Grand Prix, Bottas suffered a puncture that made him finish without points and widened the lead between him and fellow driver Lewis Hamilton. He described the puncture as “a bit of a blow in my fight with Lewis” but pledged that he was determined to do better on the tracks in the race this weekend. Bottas started the season on a high note, being the first winner after finishing first at the Austrian Grand Prix.

Mercedes Team Boss, Toto Wolff expressed his delight at having Bottas in the team for a new season, saying “we are seeing the strongest Valterri we’ve ever seen this year.” He also made known his confidence in the Valterri-Hamilton collaboration and mentioned his good relationship with his team driver, which was rare, given their competitive nature.

Mercedes would now focus on extending their deal with Hamilton whose contracts ends this season. The 6-time World Champion winner has since hinted that he was exploring other options besides Mercedes.

 
 
Written by: Leon Osamor