Although he still wants to continue his career in Formula 1 – and for this he draws strength from the earlier years of Fernando Alonso – Valtteri Bottas knows he may be forced out of the premier class, so he is also considering other options. He was first named by IndyCar.
Sauber/Audi announced the signing of Nico Hulkenberg in April, but no decision has been made since then on who will be his starting teammate at the German team. Carlos Sainz was the favourite, but he moved to Williams, forcing Audi to “rewrite” the wish list.
Of course, this list also includes the current drivers, Chou Kuan-yü and Valtteri Bottas. As for the Finn, he has said several times in recent weeks that negotiations are underway between him and the new management (in the meantime, Audi has also announced a major restructuring), and hinted that the various changes could also benefit him.
Of course, this is far from a guarantee of survival, which is why Bottas is slowly considering other options outside Formula 1, although his main goal is still to stay in the top category. He has indicated that, like Fernando Alonso, he also wants to put his career on hold.
“According to Fernando, he is exceptional, perhaps a great example, but I still have time.” “He told Motorsport Week,”“I'm actually only in my mid-30s, so age doesn't matter. In this sport, routine always helps. I feel like I have a lot of time left. I don't see the checkered flag yet.” He added.
At the same time, he admitted that he had to consider other options, and after only talking about the Formula 1 prospects, he has now revealed that he currently considers IndyCar the most attractive of the “non-royal class options”.
“I think I have to keep an eye on every opportunity that could be beneficial in the short and long term. One thing is for sure, I will still be competing somewhere. If I had to make a decision now, IndyCar would probably be my choice. But right now I don’t want to think too much about it.” He concluded by pointing out that the goal is still to stay in Formula 1.
Valtteri Bottas (Image: XPB)
