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Williams rebuff Mercedes Bottas approach
Further offer expected
Mercedes have failed in their initial attempt to sign Valtteri Bottas from Williams as a replacement for Nico Rosberg.
Rosberg’s shock decision to retire from the sport just days after sealing the 2016 world drivers’ championship has created an opening at Mercedes who are looking for someone to partner Lewis Hamilton next season.
Bottas was installed as one of the early favourites alongside Pascal Wehrlein, but Williams are keen to hang onto their prize asset and have stated categorically that, with teenager Lance Stroll set to replace the retiring Felipe Massa next season, they have no plans to change their line-up further.
However, it is expected that that Mercedes will return with a further offer this week.
Mercedes have considerable influence with Williams as they supply engines to the British team. Mercedes boss Toto Wolff is also part of Bottas’s management team.
Matters have been further complicated with the news that Paddy Lowe, Mercedes' technical chief, is set to join Williams, possibly in a 'team boss' role.
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