Bottas: “It’s an exciting moment for me”

The sudden retirement of Nico Rosberg at the end of the 2016 season offered an unexpected opportunity for Valtteri Bottas to be aligned with Mercedes this year alongside Lewis Hamilton. The 27-year-old Finn took advantage of the good understanding between Williams and the starred constructor and the presence of Toto wolff, the executive chairman of Mercedes Motorsport who manages his career, to land the most desired wheel on the board.

“This is an exciting time for me, recognized Valtteri Bottas. It's definitely going to take me a little time to really understand what's happening to me. It's a new dream that comes true by being able to race within a team that has such a rich past, especially in recent seasons where it has been so impressive. »

“I was welcomed very warmly, underlined the Finn. I will have many faces to remember. I was very impressed with the facilities. I know the Mercedes Power Unit well having driven with it for the last three years with Williams, but I will still have lots of new things to learn about the car and the way the team works, whether in testing or racing. »

Toto Wolff is also delighted to welcome his protégé to his team and displays unwavering confidence in the qualities of his new recruit.

“Valtteri is a guy who has his feet on the ground, he is a very focused person, who fits well with the image of the Finns, but these are very good qualities, commented the Austrian. He achieved top performances in minor disciplines and scored nine podiums in F1. He is now moving to the next level where he will have to show that he is able to fight for victories and for the title. »

“Beyond Mercedes, I must thank Williams for their cooperation in allowing the transfer of Valtteri, as well as Monisha (Kaltenborn, the Team Principal of Sauber F1 Team) and Sauber for their patience in recent weeks, wanted to add Toto Wolff, who mentioned the transfer of Mercedes protégé Pascal Wehrlein to the Swiss team. This day was busy with driver transfers and I am happy that Pascal will be able to continue his development in F1 with them. »

Pascal Wehrlein has also been confirmed at Sauber F1 Team this Monday. With the announcements of Valtteri Bottas and Felipe Massa who canceled his retirement to replace his former teammate, the grid is provisionally complete since Manor Racing has been placed under administration.