Felipe Nasr linked with Williams F1 return for 2016
Felipe Nasr has emerged as a candidate for a Williams Formula One seat in 2016, as speculation mounts over Valtteri Bottas’s future with the team.
Felipe Nasr has been linked with a possible move to Williams for the 2016 Formula One season, following reports that Valtteri Bottas could be targeted by Ferrari if Kimi Raikkonen is dropped. Nasr, currently in his rookie year with Sauber, is said to be on Williams’s radar should a vacancy arise at Grove.
The speculation was triggered by Brazilian outlet Globo, which suggested Nasr could be at the front of the queue if Bottas moves to Ferrari. Nasr, 22, has impressed since joining Sauber at the start of 2015, consistently outperforming teammate Marcus Ericsson and scoring points on debut. His performances have helped to counter perceptions that he is merely a pay driver, despite the strong backing from Banco do Brasil.
Nasr’s name has come up as Williams considers its options for next year. The Brazilian spent 2014 as the team’s reserve driver and retains links to Grove. When asked about the possibility of a return, Nasr said it was too early to discuss his future but acknowledged the relationship: “I had a great year with them in 2014 so I see the door open. Who knows if in the future an opportunity there may arise.”
Brake problems and frustrations at Sauber
Nasr’s frustrations with Sauber have become more visible in recent races. After the Austrian Grand Prix, he criticised the team following a repeat of the brake overheating problem that also affected him in Canada, calling the situation “unacceptable”. While Nasr reaffirmed his commitment to Sauber, such issues have fuelled speculation that he could be tempted by a seat elsewhere if the opportunity arises.
How the Williams seat could become available
The potential opening at Williams hinges on the future of Valtteri Bottas. If Ferrari decides to replace Kimi Raikkonen, Bottas is widely reported to be the leading candidate for the Maranello drive. That would leave a vacancy alongside Felipe Massa at Williams. Nasr’s prior experience with the team and his improved reputation make him a logical candidate, though he maintains that his focus is on fulfilling his Sauber contract.
- Felipe Nasr: Sauber driver, ex-Williams reserve, Banco do Brasil backing.
- Valtteri Bottas: Williams race driver, linked with Ferrari move.
- Kimi Raikkonen: Ferrari driver, seat under scrutiny.
For more on Nasr’s sponsorship and previous Williams links, seeNasr linked to Williams F1 seat with $18m sponsorship offer
