Bottas: 'Eventually we will talk about my contract'

The Finnish driver, who has been driving for Mercedes since 2017, is therefore not worried. He always gets a one-year deal from the racing stable. That has been the case every year and it may be the case again in 2022. On the other hand, Bottas could also be replaced. The Finn explained in conversation with Autosport how he sees the situation.

"I'm not in a hurry. I'm just going into this season full throttle and trying to achieve my goals. Eventually my contract will become a topic of conversation," he said.

Bottas is not the only one with a one-year contract at Mercedes.

Fellow driver Hamilton has also signed on for just one year with the team. Bottas also understands this choice from Mercedes. In 2022 a lot of changes will take place in the sport and therefore the team probably wants to keep all their options open. Bottas' goals are therefore his first priority and that includes overtaking Hamilton in 2021, although he knows it will be a struggle.

"It would be disappointing if I never overtake him. I don't want to leave any 'what if' issues open after this year. If I give the maximum, I can't regret my performance."

Whether Bottas overtakes Hamilton next season remains to be seen. Whereas Bottas was prone to making a mistake in 2020, his British counterpart was able to drive virtually flawlessly and end the season on the podium as world champion. Hamilton broke a record in the process and he will definitely want to continue that winning streak next season.