Mercedes has with Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas a strong duo of pilots, not necessarily homogenous but very complementary. If the team manages to extend Hamilton’s contract, he may want to find a long term team-mate who will need to be profiled.
Speaking to reporters, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff said: “If I had been asked this question a year ago, I would have said that the perfect duo consisted of Lewis and Nico [Rosberg], two fast drivers with an open rivalry and pushing themselves to be better, moving the car forward.”
“We realised that the positive dynamic between Valtteri and Lewis, in a season as difficult as the one that just enbded, was an asset, so I would like this association to continue and we are involved with them for 2018, but 2019 will be a new year.” Wolff added.
When asked about Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo, Wolff admitted that the Australian drivers on the German team’s short-list to eventually replace Valtteri Bottas.
“We would obviously like to continue the lease with Lewis and Valtteri, but we must admit that the transfer window for 2019 looks very exciting,” Wolff said.
“Many young drivers have gained experienced and maturity in recent seasons. It’s a typical profile that interests us, especially as some like Daniel will be available within 12 months.
“We want to see the first third of the season, if our car is strong enough and fast enough, and that’s what we’re currently focusing on, and only then will we analyse the situation hoping to make the right decisions.” the Austrian added.
While Ricciardo team-mate Max Verstappen has agreed an extension with Red Bull until 2020, the Ducthman still hangs in the balance with Ricciardo’s current contract expiring at the end of 2018.
Daniel Ricciarcdo and Max Verstappen. (Source:www.sportstalk24.com)
Speaking to reporters, Red Bull boss Christian Horner insists the Australian driver should humble their advances and stay with the team at lest until next season.
“It’s an absolute priority for us to retain the drivers. Here, they are equal chance to go for that championship. If he goes to Mercedes or Ferrari he’s just going to be a number two driver. He knows that we want to retain him in the team, and hopefully it won’t take too long to short that out.” Horner said.
