After the Canadian GP, rumors circulated that Valtteri Bottas was on the chopping block at Cadillac. The new American team was reportedly dissatisfied with the Finn’s performance, particularly compared to teammate Sergio Pérez. Sooner or later, Formula 2 driver and Cadillac junior Colton Herta was expected to take over his seat. The team management has since debunked these rumors, and Bottas himself can confirm that he is not going anywhere for now.
Read more Even with Overtake Mode, overtaking in Monaco remains an illusion: ‘Every straight has a corner’
Asked about the exit rumors in the Monaco paddock, Bottas stated that such speculations ‘are part of the sport’ and that it’s not the first time he’s been confronted with them. “It’s somewhat sad that someone just invents complete nonsense,” the Finn reacted resignedly. “However, in this sport, that’s normal. I myself know very well what situation I’m in. The team knows that too and supports me one hundred percent. That’s why I don’t have much trouble with it. I think in the media it was mainly about the clicks, at least, that’s my theory.”
Striking Difference
That does not negate the differences between Bottas and Pérez. However, both the Finn and his team emphasize that Cadillac does not always complete a regular race program and is still struggling with teething problems. “We will still have a meeting about that,” he explained. “Last week I already spoke with the team about the visible problems, both with the engine and the chassis. I cannot say more about that. We now know what the causes are, and that in itself is a positive development. We now just need to keep improving: in the way we build the car, assemble parts, and so on.” With Monaco in mind, Bottas is confident of better results. “We now understand what is going wrong.”
Read more Verstappen: ‘A lot still needs to happen for a win’
Cadillac team boss Graeme Lowdon had already debunked the rumors surrounding Bottas. “Those stories are baseless,” the Brit told PlanetF1. “I can say that with absolute certainty. We are not only racing, but also building a team at the same time. That is a very unusual task. With all due respect, the outside world does not know what we ask of these drivers. Not only during sessions and races, but also in terms of car development.”
Read more Charles Leclerc refuses favorite role in Monaco: ‘Mercedes the team to beat’
Read everything about the Monaco GP here
