"He has earned his place and he will continue to grow", Hamilton said.
Advised that speaking earlier in the week at the FIA's Sport Conference, Mercedes boss Toto Wolff had admitted that Bottas is in an "uncomfortable position" as he awaits news of whether he will be retained for 2018, the Finn insisted he didn't feel anything of the kind.
In an interview with the official Formula 1 website ahead of Baku, Hamilton suggested he could follow in the footsteps of his ex-Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg and retire at the end of the season. "I think there's much more to come, he just needs to get the right opportunity".
"Valtteri's energy is helping create a great harmony", he added. I would definitely say this year as a team, when he's at the factory, he brings great energy, which everyone loves and appreciates.
Bottas said he was drawing on his past experience while approaching the question of his future, and that it all "feels normal". The timeline is quite flexible but there is no rush really.
Tropical Storm Cindy Will Bring Stormy Weather to Indiana
Cindy was centered about 40 miles northwest of Lake Charles, Louisiana , and is moving north near 12 mph Thursday morning. Shortly after dawn, some of the low-lying clouds were rotating, and gusty winds whipped across the landscape.
"I don't know when I will know", said Bottas. GP2 first race, Formula 1 third practice session and Formula 1 qualifying will be held on the second day of the races on June 24, while the GP2 second race and Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix will be held on the last day of the races, June 25.
"For sure discussions will be opened soon because as a driver it's always nice to know what you are going to do next year".
"But it's still a bit early days for that". "I'm keen to have a long-term relationship with Mercedes and that is my target".
When asked if, in light of the Mercedes situation, he had begun talks with other teams, he said: "No".
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