OUT - even if Bottas performs adequately, Merc can't take the chance of losing George if he's not promoted soon.
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OUT - even if Bottas performs adequately, Merc can't take the chance of losing George if he's not promoted soon.
For now, at least until some changes happen, there are probably no drivers that will challenge either Lewis or Max in the respective teams. But four years in Bottas still isn't really a great #2 unless the car is completely dominant. And just about anyone on the grid can do that. I think there are a lot of really good options myself.
And no disrespect intended towards yourself or Bottas. He's a really good driver IMHO, but not consistently fast enough to earn an upper crust ride.
I have to think that has an impact on the decision. If Merc waits too long it could really bite them later, especially with all the car changes coming next year.
Toto said today the decision has been made. Has to be:
OUT
Russell in a inferior car trounced Bottas.
2.3 seconds to Hamilton in the same car. It's actually disgraceful. Mercedes have to look to the future and with the rule changes next year it's the perfect time to bring him in. There's more to be gained by bringing in Russell than there is by retaining Bottas. As I said before, I heard through the grapevine that they signed Russell about 2 months ago anyway. We'll find out soon if that is true I guess.
IN.
If Russell was still available, Red Bull would have waited before re-signing Perez.