Bruno Senna Denies Williams Set Race-Win Ultimatum for 2012
Bruno Senna says Williams has not demanded a race win in 2012, despite speculation about his future and the rise of reserve driver Valtteri Bottas.
Bruno Senna has rejected claims that Williams is demanding a race win from him in the 2012 Formula One season, despite growing pressure following Pastor Maldonado’s victory in Spain and ongoing speculation about the team’s reserve driver Valtteri Bottas.
Senna, 28, has scored half as many points as Maldonado so far this year. While Maldonado delivered Williams’ first win since 2004 by taking victory from pole in Barcelona, Senna has struggled to match his teammate’s headline results. This has fuelled rumours that Williams could promote Bottas, who has been getting regular running in Senna’s car during Friday practice sessions.
Speaking to Globo Esporte, Senna dismissed the idea that his seat depends on a win in 2012. He said that Williams management recognise the challenge of putting together all the elements needed for a victory, especially given his limited time in the car during race weekends.
Williams’ expectations for Senna
Senna explained that the team’s focus is on consistent points finishes and demonstrating potential, rather than setting a race-win target. He emphasised that Formula One victories require a combination of car performance, tyre management and race strategy, and that Williams is giving him time to develop.
Senna pointed out that missing Friday running has left him with less opportunity to understand Pirelli’s tyres and adapt to changing conditions. He said the impact was most evident at the Spanish Grand Prix, where Maldonado’s greater experience with the tyres contributed to his win.
Bottas’ presence and Senna’s future
The team’s decision to give Bottas regular practice time has increased scrutiny on Senna’s performances. However, Senna said Williams is treating 2012 as a learning year for him, with the expectation that he will be in a stronger position to challenge for wins in 2013 if he remains with the team.
Senna’s comments suggest Williams is prioritising long-term development over short-term results. The situation is complicated by the team’s improved form and the presence of a highly-rated reserve driver, but Senna maintains that his immediate target is consistency rather than victory.
Unpredictable 2012 championship
Senna also commented on the unpredictable nature of the 2012 championship, saying that while Lotus appeared to have the fastest car, the competitive order varied from race to race. This has made it difficult for teams and drivers to plan for outright wins.
For more on Williams’ recent changes, seeWilliams Finally Drops Senna Logo Car Tribute.
