Mercedes keep faith with Bottas for 2020

Mercedes have confirmed that Valtteri Bottas will remain in the team's driver line-up alongside Lewis Hamilton in 2020.

The Silver Arrows had narrowed down their decision to either Bottas or reserve driver Esteban Ocon, who has joined Renault instead.

Bottas had signed a one-year deal for 2019, with an option for 2020, which the team has activated.

The Finn started the season in brilliant form, winning in Australia and Azerbaijan to lead Hamilton in the drivers' championship in the early races of the season.

However, Bottas has fallen away from his team-mate, who leads the standings by a mammoth 62 points ahead of F1's racing resumption in Belgium this weekend.

Regardless, Bottas' contributions to two constructors' titles, and a likely third this year, as well as a harmonious relationship with Hamilton are all likely to have played into his hands in securing another year in F1's top team.

To whom it may concern... 😉 He’s staying! 👊@ValtteriBottas will race for the team next season! 💙🔥 pic.twitter.com/BRqSNoCJye

— Mercedes-AMG F1 (@MercedesAMGF1) August 29, 2019

Bottas said: “I am very happy and proud to be part of the team for a fourth season and wish to thank every team member and the board of Mercedes for their trust and belief in me.

“My performances have been getting better and better each year, and this is a great way to kick start the second half of 2019.

“My overall target is to become Formula One world champion. I believe that on paper, and from my experience with the team, Mercedes is the best option for me to achieve that goal in 2020.

“We have nine races to go this season and I am determined to keep improving at every one of them. Now, all my thoughts are on Spa and delivering a strong performance with the team this weekend.”

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