Alfa Romeo driver Valtteri Bottas has said he wants to stay with the team until 2026. Bottas signed a 2022+2 contract with Alfa Romeo before the 1 season and has the option to stay with the team until 2024.
Although promising at first, Alfa Romeo has fallen behind in the middle group and is now ninth in the Constructors' Championship.
From 2026, the team will be taken over by the German manufacturer Audi, which will enter F1. Bottas had previously declined to talk about the team's future potential, but has now admitted that it would make sense for him to stay with the team during the Audi era.
Asked if he would like to stay with the team until 2026, Bottas replied: “When I think about it, I say yes. This is an interesting period for me and for the team.”
“When you focus on the here and now, sometimes you don't want to think too far ahead – but then you really think about it and decide that it makes sense to have a long-term plan.”
“It will be really motivating for me to be a part of this. We'll see, still a little zamthere is a moment. I'm sure we'll have some talks eventually, but not yet."
As the team prepares to be taken over by Audi, there are allegations that its current progress has been hampered by keeping one eye on Audi.
Bottas, however, denied allegations that Alfa Romeo was downgrading because it was on hold.
“From the outside, it might look like the team is waiting for Audi to arrive,” said Bottas. But that is not the case.”
“Everyone just keeps going and pushing; So we don't stand still. It's just that the grid is very competitive right now and it's not easy to get there when you don't start the season in a good spot. That's why we're pushing, we're not counting." said.
It would be a big win for the team if Bottas stays at Alfa Romeo until 2026. Bottas is an experienced and fast driver and can add a lot to the team. It could also help the team take part in the championship fight during the Audi era.
