Williams driver Nicholas Latifi remains unfazed by the rumours surrounding his future in Formula 1, although he does concede that he has doubts over whether he will still be there next year.
Latifi has been largely out-performed by team-mate Alex Albon at all nine races so far this season, and has failed to score a point in 2022 while the Thai-Briton has managed two top 10 finishes.
Albon officially leads the qualifying battle 9-0, while Latifi has finished ahead on two Sundays.
There were glimpses of the Canadian’s true ability on display in Spain and Monaco during race day, but they have been minor highlights in a season during which he has struggled to acclimatise to the new car.
There is increasing speculation that the 27-year-old will be replaced by Alpine reserve driver Oscar Piastri next year, but a lot of the rumours circling around in the media, as was proven by Canadian journalist Norris McDonald, are not to be believed.
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“Rumours and criticism are part of the game,” Latifi told RTL ahead of the British Grand Prix.
“But if you believe everything that is written, my season would have been over after Montreal.
“We’ll stick to the facts, tomorrow we’ll talk to Jost Capito [Williams team principal].”
The Williams man admitted that his performances up to now have not merited a longer stay but, if he improves, there may be a place for him at the team in 2023.
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“If I look at my performance this year, I might actually not be able to drive in Formula 1 next year but there is also a very good possibility that I will drive for Williams next season,” he candidly added.
Albon has been given Williams’ latest upgrade that is set to gain them a significant amount of lap time, but the part is not quite ready for Latifi yet.
It is no secret that the 26-year-old has established himself as the number one driver at the Grove-based side, so it is not a massive surprise that he is the recipient upgrade of the improvements in Silverstone.
“It’s quite common for upgrades to be available for only one car at first so no, I’m not surprised he got it here,” added Latifi.
“Of course, I would have liked to have it as it’s a serious change and I hope it makes a difference for us.”
Latifi remains rooted to 21st and last in the Drivers’ Standings after nine rounds, with Williams last in the Constructors’ Championship.