If reports are to be believed, Valtteri Bottas could be in line for a shock move to Renault with sources in France claiming Toto Wolff is pushing for the move.
The F1 driver market is in full swing with Carlos Sainz moving to Ferrari following Sebastian Vettel’s departure, and Daniel Ricciardo filling the void left at McLaren.
Ricciardo’s departure has left a seat vacant at Renault, with several high-profile names thought to be in contention for the role – including two-time World Champion, Fernando Alonso.
Last week, it was reported that Bottas’ manager, Didier Coton, had been in talks with Renault managing director, Cyril Abiteboul. Neither party confirmed or denied the rumours.
Speaking with ESPN, Wolff said that he would not want to work with a driver for a full season knowing they were on their way out at the end of the year.
“How the events panned out was fast and different because one must not forget there is still a full season to race.
“And you would rarely take decisions so early in the season because be it for Daniel at Renault, or Carlos at McLaren, or Sebastian at Ferrari, these guys will race the new kit, will see all the innovation, will need to be involved in the development of the vehicle and need to play their team part also in some of the competitions.
“So, yes, these decisions came about quicker than I would have done but it’s interesting to watch.”