Bottas Keen on Wrapping Up Mercedes F1 Contract Talks ‘Earlier’

Mercedes and Lewis Hamilton’s contract negotiations for the 2021 season dragged on a bit too long this year. So much so, that both parties have declared their intent to finalize the deal for 2022 before the paddock leaves for mid-season break. And from the looks of it, the extensive delay seems to have scared Valtteri Bottas too, who is eager to finalize his contract as soon as possible.

Valtteri Bottas feels “summer break” is the perfect time to make the decision

As quoted by Motorsport.com, Bottas said, “Honestly, it’s always better earlier. “I’ve had contracts [signed] early, I’ve had contracts too late that it almost becomes a distraction.”

“But to be honest, I haven’t really thought about it yet. And that’s an honest answer. I’m really just focusing on these races now and that moment when we start to talk it will come eventually.

“For sure about my future, yes, I think August break is normally a good deadline. But to be honest I don’t want to think about it yet.I just want to win races, that’s the only thing on my mind at the moment,” Bottas concluded.

How does Bottas compare to his teammate, Lewis Hamilton?

The Finn has been on Hamilton‘s tail for quite some time, but unfortunately, he rarely managed to beat the Knight. Bottas has made to every single podium this season, except for the Emilia GP, where he crashed with Williams driver, George Russell.

Now with four races in, Bottas holds third place in the standings with 47 points to his name while Hamilton leads the table with 90. The 31-year-old also faces a threat in the form of George Russell, who is tipped to replace him in the team.

With only a year left to prove to Mercedes that he deserves to stay, do you think that Bottas will push Hamilton all the way and claim his first-ever title in F1? and persuade Mercedes to extend his contract? Let us know in the comments below.

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