Williams reportedly ready to let Bottas go

Claire Williams, the Williams Racing Team Principal, announced BBC Sport that the Grove stable was ready to let go Valtteri Bottas in Mercedes if the Finn received a firm offer from the star manufacturer to replace Nico Rosberg in 2017.

“I am delighted to see that Valtteri is a potential replacement for Nico in the list of a team as prestigious as Mercedes, commented Claire Williams. We have always known Valtteri as a raw talent and we are proud that the Championship leaders recognize him. However, Williams also has his own ambitions and we must always ensure we give the team their best chance of progressing. Changes would only be made if it allows Williams to remain in a strong position to race and develop in 2017."

Valtteri Bottas' track is considered serious since Toto wolff, the executive chairman of Mercedes Motorsport, also manages the Finn's career. The Austrian indicated last week that this driver was important to the British team.

“If we allowed Valtteri to leave, we would only do so if a credible and experienced alternative was available with someone like Felipe Massa for example”, warned Claire Williams.

Williams Racing is counting on Valtteri Bottas to exploit his experience, the Grove team having started Lance stroll which will debut in F1 next year following the departure of Felipe Massa.