Valtteri Bottas says he never doubted that he would be retained by Mercedes for 2018, in the wake of his one-year extension with the manufacturer.
Bottas joined Mercedes from Williams at the start of 2017 as a replacement for World Champion Nico Rosberg, following his surprise decision to retire.
Bottas’ one-year deal was confirmed earlier in the week and the Finn says he never felt that his place at Mercedes for 2018 was under threat.
“Of course it is nice to know where you are going to be racing next year," said Bottas.
"It's a good feeling, better than not knowing and better than not having information.
"But there's been no point honestly in the season where I've been in a massive panic about it.
“The season started pretty well, we've got some good results together, and at no point during the year so far have I got any signs from the team they were looking somewhere else.
“That's why it's not like a massive difference, the feeling, but obviously it's all positive.”
Bottas also explained that he understands Mercedes’ desire to keep his deal as a one-year extension, with several drivers out of contract for 2019.
“I understand of course always the team's view on things, and for sure the team also wants to have options open for the future,” he said.
“I understand 100 per cent, but with this I am very happy. It's still better than the original contract that I had.
“It's still as always before with my career in F1, it's going to be completely down to me. If I perform well, there's going to be no problem, and we can have a long future together.”
Discussion about this post