Williams delay 2018 decision to Abu Dhabi

Felipe Massa won’t have another Brazilian send-off such as last year as reports claim Williams won’t confirm their 2018 line-up until the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Williams have yet to decide on who will partner Lance Stroll next season.

While Massa is hoping to retain his seat, the team recently tested Paul di Resta and Robert Kubica while also admitting that Pascal Wehrlein is a candidate.

And it is, at least according to whispers in the paddock, the latter who are leading the running.

Massa had hoped for a definitive decision before the Brazilian GP, wanting to – for the second year running – say goodbye to his fans if needed, however, that is unlikely to happen.

Sky F1’s Mark Hughes Tweeted: “Williams driver decision… postponed until post-Abu Dhabi.”

As for Wehrlein, Toto Wolff is pushing hard to get the Mercedes protégé into the Williams seat.

“The Williams is the option that is left,” said the motorsport boss. “Williams is considering a number of drivers. For Pascal, the chance is there, but we can’t really do more than we’ve done.”