[morini]

On the other hand, I am still not sure if Mercedes cq Hamilton want a competative driver next to the clear number 1. They didn't liked the situation with Rosberg and Hamilton and now with Bottas, they are fully in controle, taking both championships with almost certainty.

It might work for Mercedes management having a "weaker" driver in the other seat, but I genuinely do not think Lewis Hamilton asks for number 1 status. I also believe that unlike some teams Mercedes really do give both drivers equal opportunity to win the WDC. Up until this season Bottas hasn't been quite good enough, that isn't a result of any preference to the other side of the garage. At least I don't think so.

I can see why Renault would be interested in Valterri though, given the way Jody positioned it in the post above.