WILLIAMS have hinted they could let Valtteri Bottas join Mercedes in 2017 if they can persuade Felipe Massa to step out of retirement, it has been reported.
Mercedes have had one offer for 27-year-old Bottas turned down as they search for a replacement for Nico Rosberg, who retired last month after securing his first world drivers’ title.
Massa, 35, announced his retirement in September and brought the curtain down on his 14 years in Formula One at the end of the season.
“I’m delighted to see that a team like Mercedes lists Valtteri as a potential replacement for Nico,” Williams’ deputy team principal Claire Williams told BBC Sport.
“We have always known Valtteri is one of the sport’s key talents and are proud that the championship leaders recognise this.
“However, Williams has its own ambitions and we must always ensure we give our team the best opportunity to move forward. Any changes would only be made if Williams remains in a strong position to compete and develop in 2017.
“If we did allow Valtteri to leave, we would only do this if an experienced, credible alternative was available, such as someone like Felipe Massa, for example.”
Williams would want a seasoned campaigner to partner Canada’s teenage rookie Lance Stroll in 2017 should Mercedes persuade Williams to release Finn Bottas from his contract.
Massa made it clear he wanted to carry on racing and the Brazilian could see this as the ideal opportunity to prolong his career.
Mercedes will not announce the identity of their new driver until January 3 at the earliest.
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