I disagree, Merc had no need to replace Bottas because the rest of the field/RB were not enough of a threat to mandate a driver change so I don't think any conspiracy theories/bitch to Lewis are justified. But now with the threat that RB pose we'll soon see what's what, and what that will be is Bottas out, Russell in, and there won't be any room for playing second fiddle it'll be quickest wins.
I disagree on two points. Merc would have identified the probable threat of the RBR this season, particularly given that DAS is banned and the aero changes favour higher rake cars. Also, at every turn they have done what they can to keep Bottas in 2nd so he can't challenge Lewis.
Bottas only just bagged 2nd in WDC in 2020 with equal podiums and wins with Max, so to say there were no credible threats isnt quite true. Granted it may not have threatened the championship but to have a Merc driver only just scraping 2nd against an opponent in an inferior car should have sent up some red flags.
But I agree that if the heat is on and the WDC / WCC look under threat, I would be surprised if Bottas lasts the season (unless we see a consistently improved Bottas 3.0 or whatever version number he is on now).