Daniil Kvyat could be in line for a drive at Williams for 2017 according to reports in the Italian media.
The Russian, who was recently replaced at Red Bull Racing by Max Verstappen, has been linked with a drive alongside Jenson Button as part of an all-new driver line up for the British team.
The 2009 world champion could return to the team that handed him his Formula One début if he is replaced by Stoffel Vandoorne at McLaren, with the young Belgian constantly linked with a promotion to an F1 race seat after winning the 2015 GP2 title.
Current Williams drivers Felipe Massa and Valtteri Bottas have often been the subject of paddock speculation in recent months with Felipe Massa reportedly in talks with Renault over a potential move and Valtteri Bottas rumoured to be attracting the attention of both Mercedes and Ferrari.
Kvyat, who currently sits 10th in the driver standings, six positions ahead of Button, has had a difficult season so far. Despite scoring a podium finish in China, he has found himself outpaced by his team mate in every other race.
He was demoted back to Scuderia Toro Rosso after a difficult home Grand Prix in Russia which saw him make contact with former Red Bull driver Sebastian Vettel twice on the opening lap.
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Replies (6)
Login to replycalle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Kvyat? Nah I dont think so. Unless he has a good sponsor I dont see him as a Williams driver. Its more likely that Button will replace Massa.
Jutlandia
Posts: 191
Dos anyone know what kind of financial support that Kvyat have. I suppose that it is needed in order to get a seat at Williams.
calle.itw
Posts: 8,527
Kvyat is currently backed Sergey Belousov, whom I believe own companies such as Acronis and investment firm Runa Capital. I have no info on what he pays to Toro Rosso, however he also offer tech-related services to the team.
DRS-zone
Posts: 315
I see Button moving to Williams but I don't have any clue why they would sign Kvyat, unless he has interesting sponsorship or partners from Russia.
ForzaRosso
Posts: 5
Surprising to hear Kvyat linked, I'd expect it more to be Button and Bottas
Patentprutser
Posts: 392
Would be a big step forward for Williams.
Kvyat is young, Button knows the team and has tons of experience.