JULY 23, 2015

Bottas not denying Ferrari rumours in Hungary

Valtteri Bottas on Thursday did not deny raging speculation he will switch to Ferrari for 2016.

Valtteri Bottas on Thursday did not deny raging speculation he will switch to Ferrari for 2016.

It is rumoured the fabled Italian team is set to pay Williams millions to buy out his 2016 contract option, and speaking ahead of the Hungarian grand prix, Bottas also would not confirm if he will still be with the Grove based outfit next year.

"I have no confirmation yet whether I am going to be a part of that (Williams) or not and, like I said, whichever team I'm at I will give 100 per cent," he said.

And Bottas would not be drawn on when there will be clarity about his future.

"Of course as a driver you want it (confirmation) as soon as possible, but sometimes you have to wait. That's life," said the 25-year-old. "For sure we are going to tell when there is something to tell about."

Current teammate Felipe Massa, on the other hand, is hoping Williams will take up his own 2016 contract option.

When asked about reports the deal has already been signed, the Brazilian said on Thursday: "I believe I will drive for Williams next year but maybe the chance this guy (reporter) is correct is bigger."

Meanwhile, Swiss rookie Fabio Leimer on Thursday announced that he will finally make his Friday practice debut this weekend for Sauber.

It is believed his management struggled to put the necessary budget together in time for Austria and Silverstone, amid suggestions the Friday role is a precursor to a full Manor race seat.

(GMM)