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Bottas: Ferrari rumours hurt Williams

SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS, Belguim - Valtteri Bottas suggested that speculation linking him to Ferrari has hurt his relationship with Williams.

Bottas was seen as a favourite to replace compatriot Kimi Raikkonen at the Italian glamour team in 2015 until Ferrari announced on Wednesday that Raikkonen was staying for another season.

DAMAGING RUMOURS

Bottas told reporters ahead of Sunday's 2015 Belgian GP: "For sure it doesn't do any good to my and the team's relationship, so it is not fair for us - those kind of rumours."

"It's easier now for me, for Williams and for Kimi. Now there are just facts and no rumours and I think this (announcement) proves that what a lot of what was said was rumour. Nothing has changed for me."

Williams have an option on Bottas's services for 2016 but have yet to confirm their lineup, although veteran Felipe Massa is expected to stay.

Bottas said discussions with Williams were ongoing and he would be happy to stay: "As a driver you want to know as soon as you can. It will be nice to know but there is also no mega-rush. For next year we are still discussing, so there is no confirmation on that.

"I feel like I have done a good job with the car. I want to be in a quicker car but I think for next year we can do with it Williams if I stay here."

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