Valtteri Bottas is trying not to be distracted by growing speculation that Esteban Ocon will replace him at Mercedes in 2020.
A strong start to the season had seemingly made the Finn almost undroppable when he won two of the first four races, however, he hasn’t won since Baku and was singled out by team boss Toto Wolff after crashing out in Germany.
The Mercedes chief has also since suggested Ocon, who sits as reserve driver, deserves a chance at the Brackley-based team.
“For sure when people talk about it and ask about it, you think about it a little bit, but you try to minimise it,” Bottas told Crash.net
“It doesn’t matter between races. You think about it and for sure we have discussions and talk to the team about very open discussions.
“That’s all good, but I have been able to find ways that wherever it’s going in your mind, in life situations, when I’m in the car there is nothing else on my mind.
“That’s what matters in the car, and I’m sure this weekend it won’t be a problem again.”
The story has since taken another step forward with 2016 champion Nico Rosberg telling Germany’s RTL that his sources at Mercedes are expecting Ocon to get the call.
“We will see what will happen. I will have more answers after Budapest.” Esteban said in his latest comments on the matter to France’s Canal Plus
“It’s clear that it’s going to be a break where my phone will be heating up a lot, but as long as there are things happening and people talking about me, it’s a good thing.
“What I really hope for is to find a competitive car.
“My dream is always to win titles and races, so I want to come back as soon as possible.”
