Williams confirm Maldonado for next year

Dec 2, 2011, 9:24 GMT

London - Pastor Maldonado will continue racing for Williams next year while Rubens Barrichello's future as the second driver remains uncertain.

Team principal Frank Williams said in a statement issued late Thursday that Maldonado had shown his potential in his rookie campaign 2011 although he managed only one championship point from a 10th-place finish in Belgium.

The Venezuelan, who brings financial backing from a local oil company to the team, was unlucky in Monaco when he crashed out while lying in sixth place.

'Pastor has proven this year that he is not only quick but also that he is able to maintain a consistent and strong race pace. Pastor has been responsible for all of our forays into Q3 in 2011 and his race at Monaco was outstanding,' said Williams.

'Pastor has also settled into the team at Williams very well ... He will play a critical role in 2012 as we rebuild the team and move forward.'

Maldonado said: 'This has been a tough season for the whole team but it has given me personally the opportunity to learn and develop.

'I am convinced that the steps we have taken to improve our competitiveness will bear fruit in 2012 and beyond. I am thrilled to be part of that and also to represent the people of Venezuela in Formula One.'

Williams also said that Valtteri Bottas of Finland will become reserve driver in 2012. The 22-year-old GP3 series winner will feature in Friday practice but that the races will be 'most likely' contested by 'a more experienced driver,' according to Williams.

Brazil's Barrichello, 39, has vast experience and is keen to race in a 20th career season next year. He earned four points in the past season but Williams are yet to say whether he has a future at the team.

'We will announce the identity of that driver in due course,' Frank Williams said.

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