All the talk in the driver market thus far has been about Vettel and where does he go for the 2021 season, but another interesting player to monitor will be Valtteri Bottas. The Finn has been on a rolling one year contract since he joined Mercedes. However, many feel that Bottas would have to have an unbelievably good season to stay with the Silver Arrows for 2021.

Seeing that a 4-time world champion is on the market, Bottas and his management have been in talks with Red Bull and Renault. Many tout that the Finn could join Renault. As a replacement for Daniel Ricciardo for the 2021 season.

However, a former F1 racer feels that the seat at Renault could be taken by someone who’s left Grand Prix racing.

JJ lehto feels Alonso pips Valtteri Bottas for Renault drive in 2021

Former Sauber and Benetton driver, JJ Lehto, speaking to Iltahlehti newspaper said, ” Valtteri has always had one-year contracts, which feels like there is no complete faith and trust in him.”

Acknowledging the Finn’s contribution at Mercedes, he said, “ Valtteri has been good at Mercedes. A good runner up who has been able to win races. Help a manufacturer team win championships and give a good challenge to Hamilton.”

Lehto also feels that Bottas is not likely to get a drive at Renault. Lehto instead suggests that Renault’s favourite would be Fernando Alonso.

The former F1 driver, Lehto said, ” Alonso is a political and difficult person, but still a 2-time world champion for Renault.”

Fernando Alonso left F1 at the end of 2018 season after three years with McLaren. The reasons he cited were a predictable finishing order and a perceived lack of on-track racing. The Spaniard then switched to Endurance racing. Alonso had immediate success in Endurance racing and won the 24 Hours of Le Mans last year.

Every now and again the Spaniard is always rumoured to be interested in a return to F1. This time maybe his former team may actually offer him a way back. If he is interested and If Renault F1 is still alive as a team, that is.