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Bottas set for 2018 Mercedes deal - Wolff

Germany - Valtteri Bottas looks set to secure a one-year extension to his Mercedes contract for 2018.

Bottas  signed a one-year deal to replace the suddenly-retired Nico Rosberg this year, and has been pushing for a "long-term" commitment by the German team.

Bottas impressing

The good news for Bottas is that Mercedes seems to want to keep him.

Team boss Toto Wolff told the Finnish broadcaster C More at Silverstone: "I'm really satisfied with Valtteri." 

Asked about Bottas and Mercedes for 2018, he added: "I think looking at his performance, it really is a no brainer.

Decisions to make

"But it's not just about next year but also the years after.  We have to put all the puzzle pieces together.

"After the race in Budapest I will think about it some more on the beach," Wolff smiled.

Wolff's reference to the years after 2018 is an indication that Mercedes could make a move for Sebastian Vettel, Daniel Ricciardo, Fernando Alonso or another top driver for 2019 and beyond.

As for Bottas in 2018, Wolff said: "I think yes, we are 90% ready."

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