Share

Decisive period for three F1 drivers

Germany - From the front to the back of the 2017 grid, the respective futures of three Formula 1 drivers could take a step forward over the August break.

Bottas situation

At the front, Valtteri Bottas' boss Toto Wolff has promised to think about a new deal for the Finn whilst sitting "on the beach".

Rumours suggest a further one-year contract, giving Mercedes the freedom to sign a top star like Fernando Alonso or Sebastian Vettel, is likely.

Bottas admits talks about 2018 are imminent

He said: "For sure we need to speak about what's going to happen soon. I have no idea about the future yet but the problem is that the mobile phone is not so good in the sauna.

"It could take a while so don't expect anything in Spa."

His boss, Wolff, added: "The summer break is a good time for conversation and for thinking.

"We had good talks with Valtteri before Hungary, as I would like to fly to Asia for the last races with a decision."

Good and hot test day ?? 155 laps ?? #F1 #VB77 @mercedesamgf1

A post shared by Valtteri Bottas (@valtteribottas) on

                                                    Image: Valtteri Bottas/Instagram

Where to for Perez and Wehrlein

Meanwhile, in the midfield, Sergio Perez admits he is hoping for a new Force India deal.

"I hope once I come to the next race after the summer break I can have a new contract.

"But you never know what will happen."

And finally, there are reports German backmarker Pascal Wehrlein will struggle to keep his Sauber cockpit for next year in the wake of the Swiss team's new Ferrari deal.

Wehrlein is backed by Mercedes, whose Wolff said when asked about the 22-year-old: "There are many movements on the market.

"In the next two weeks, a few interesting things could happen."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()