Mercedes has confirmed that Valtteri Bottas will continue to race for the team next year, completing the manufacturer’s 2019 Formula 1 line-up, after signing a one-plus-one deal.
Mercedes announced on Thursday that reigning World Champion Lewis Hamilton will continue at the team until 2020, moving the focus onto Bottas, who hinted a deal was close.
Bottas joined Mercedes at the start of 2017 following four years with Williams as a late replacement for Nico Rosberg, in the wake of the German’s shock retirement.
Bottas, who has taken three wins and five poles, was retained for 2018 and has displayed stronger form through the opening half of the campaign, albeit without adding to his victory tally.
Mercedes announced ahead of its home Grand Prix in Germany that Bottas will remain part of the team next year, his third season at the manufacturer, with an option for a further year in 2020.
"It is great news that I will be racing for Mercedes in 2019 and it is nice to announce it here in Hockenheim – not just the home race for Mercedes but also the circuit where I took my first ever single-seater wins back in 2007," he said.
"This year, with a full winter of preparation, I have been able to make a good step forward – and I believe that there is still more to come. We have not been so lucky in the races this year but the team knows how I am performing, and this is a great sign of confidence in me and my driving.
"I enjoy working with the team, and also being team-mates with Lewis – we have a good relationship, honest and straightforward, and always aiming to get the right results for Mercedes.
"We have a big battle on our hands right now, so it's good to have the future clear for everybody – it means we can have a full focus on the championship fight.
"Obviously, my goal is to keep performing at a high level – and to make it a no-brainer for the team when it comes to deciding their plans for 2020 as well."
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