Valtteri Bottas is reportedly trying to secure an early confirmation of his Mercedes seat for 2020.
After a difficult 2018, the Finn’s future at the German manufacturer was dependent on how he responded to the pressure this season, particularly with Esteban Ocon sat as reserve driver.
But with victory in Melbourne and two second places, Motorsport.com claims Bottas is trying to strike early and activate the option for next year in his current contract.
Likely weighing on his mind is how quickly a season can turn around, last year Valtteri could have easily won three of the first four races but it was a puncture while leading in Baku that was the moment his form soured.
Similarly, in the first three races in 2019, his performances have been stronger, but in Bahrain and China, it was still clear that teammate Lewis Hamilton has the advantage.
Asked about the driver situation post-race in Shanghai, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff indicated there was no rush to make a decision.
“What I decide for 2020 will be first discussed with Valtteri and Lewis once that decision is taken, it will be taken into account and we can plan for 2020.”
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In addition to Ocon, who is the obvious candidate to replace Bottas, the recent link between Max Verstappen and Mercedes will no doubt rumble on too.
But as Wolff clarified: “There is no talking about Max, nor his contract,” he said.
“I think for the right reasons Max is very committed to the Red Bull-Honda situation and rightly so. We are committed to our drivers.
“We are not planning to engage in any sort of discussions nor does Jos and Max. So I don’t know where that came from.”
