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According to Germany’s Auto Motor und Sport, Williams driver Pastor Maldonado has emerged as the favorite to replace Kimi Raikkonen at Lotus despite heavy rumors about Nico Hulkenberg being considered for the same.
Maldonado is said to be backed by his sponsors PDVSA, who have been negotiating with Williams about his exit. And the reports suggested that the deal between the driver and Lotus is already done with Williams eligible for compensation from PDVSA.
Meanwhile, Hulkenberg, who is certain to leave Sauber at the end of the season, is likely to move to Force India. The fact that he is practically unsponsored was the main obstacle between him and a Lotus seat while Maldonado had the luxury of Venezuelan sponsors PDVSA.
The report added that Williams will be looking to lure Felipe Massa, to fill in the hole left by Maldonado.
