Mercedes driver Valtteri Bottas is certain that his Hungary error won’t affect his future at Mercedes.
Bottas was the villain in Budapest, as he initiated a series of collisions on Lap 1. His error took out multiple drivers, and Mercedes cannot be impressed with his actions. With his future at Mercedes still very much in the air, it may spell trouble for the Finn. However, he is certain that it won’t affect his future.
“Obviously my mistake. I was the one coming from behind, and it’s up to me to brake early enough, but I misjudged the braking point,” Bottas said.
“It shows it’s not so easy in those conditions to predict, but I should have braked earlier, because when I started braking, I was closing in, then I locked the wheels and I hit Lando, and that caused the whole mess. So, my misjudgement and my mistake.
“If I’m honest, it would be nice to race next weekend and try and get a good race. But I guess it’s time for a break and try to come back strong and try and have a positive start to the second half,” he said.
Uncertain times
Bottas received a five-place grid drop due to his actions for the upcoming Belgian Grand Prix. Asked about his future and any talks with Toto Wolff, Bottas seemed reassured, saying it wouldn’t hang on the Hungarian Grand Prix.
“We didn’t speak about (the future),” Bottas said. “I don’t think one race will influence anything. I don’t think so. We’ll see in the next weeks what happens.”
Mercedes will have to make a decision in the coming weeks regarding their second driver to partner Lewis Hamilton. Bottas is one of some options, but he doesn’t seem to be the favourite to retain his seat. With George Russell waiting in the wings, Bottas’ time at Mercedes could be nearing its end.
The Hungarian Grand Prix may not and should not be used as an indicator of Bottas’ achievements. Even if he leaves, Bottas will look to go out with a bang, and do well in the upcoming races.
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