Valtteri Bottas hits back with blunt theory over 'bullshit' F1 rumours

Valtteri Bottas has shared his theory on what motivated the speculation over his F1 future in recent weeks, suggesting it was nothing more than the media attempting to drum up pageviews.

Around the Canadian Grand Prix and in the days that followed the round at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, it was reported that Cadillac wanted to jettison the 36-year-old from his seat, to be replaced by F2 driver — and nine-time IndyCar winner — Colton Herta.

Despite the American being widely considered in-waiting for a drive with the General Motors-backed F1 project, he does not yet have sufficient FIA super licence points, and team principal of the fledgling squad, Graeme Lowdon, categorically denied to RacingNews365 that Bottas could be replaced imminently.

He argued there was "no foundation" and "no truth" to any of the speculation. Both Bottas and Sergio Perez are contracted to the team until the end of 2027.

The rumour was underpinned by the Finnish driver's relatively meagre performances compared with his team-mate, although the 10-time grand prix winner has explained that there have been power unit and car build issues plaguing his MAC-26, which the team is aware of.

When asked how annoyed he was by the unfounded reports, Bottas shared his disappointment, even if he was not surprised.

"Well, it's part of the sport, it's not the first time I've faced those kinds of rumours," he told media, including RacingNews365.

"But it's a bit of a shame that somebody just makes up complete bullshit, but that's normal in this sport, and I know my situation, the team knows my situation, they support me 100 per cent.

"So that's why, from my side, it was okay in the end."

When questioned on what he believes to have been the catalyst, he promptly replied: "Headlines, clicks; that's my theory."