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Villeneuve: Ocon may replace Bottas in 2019

  • Writer: Muhammad Humais
    Muhammad Humais
  • Dec 13, 2018
  • 2 min read

Valtteri Bottas after 2018 Russian Grand Prix, Courtesy Motorsport Week

1997 Formula 1 World Champion Jacques Villeneuve says Esteban Ocon may possibly replace Valtteri Bottas in 2019, amid his commitment to the Silver Arrows for what might be his third season with the team.


Valtteri Bottas joined Mercedes in 2017, after 2016 World Champion Nico Rosberg announced retirement. The Finn since then has gotten 6 pole positions, 21 podiums and 3 wins. But his pace has dropped in 2018. He is the only Mercedes Driver in Hybrid era to get no win in entire season.


Though the German team has history of staying committed to a driver for long time, there are rumours that Bottas may be replaced by Ocon in mid-season if he doesn't improve in 2019. Esteban Ocon was part of Mercedes Family but he has no seat in 2019, despite great performance with Force India, only to be replaced with Lance Stroll.


But Jacques Villeneuve hints a possibility of Ocon getting his seat again in 2019. Valtteri Bottas is also taking part in Arctic Rally of Finland in January, which may be his next destination if he splits with Mercedes and joins WRC in 2020. Jacques Villeneuve said!


“I think there is a possibility that Bottas will be replaced by Esteban Ocon during the 2019 season.”


Valtteri Bottas has had an unlucky season, retiring from lead at Azerbaijan Grand Prix by a tyre puncture caused by Debris on track.

The Finn is determinant to perform better in 2019, having said he has "no worries about Formula 1 future". He also explained he lost a lot of motivation with bad lucks in several races, most notably Russia, where he gave his victory to teammate Lewis Hamilton.


Meanwhile, Ocon isn't free of contract either. The frenchman will join Mercedes to help with simulations and act as a reserve driver for 2019. The change is guaranteed and it will put Ocon on top level, fighting with teammate Lewis Hamilton and being a strong rival to Charles Leclerc in future.


2019 Australian Grand Prix will take place from 15th-17th March at Melbourne.


Esteban Ocon had a good second season at Force India, outqualifying teammate Sergio Perez several times.


 


Shahmir Khan


Editor-in-Chief WEC & WRC, Member news desk.


In his own words, “17-year-old guy who is avid motorsports gamer. Petrolhead, die-hard F1 and motorsports fan and loves to write about cars and motorsports.”


Shahmir can be easily reached by the following address:

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