Valtteri Bottas was in “denial” while he was Lewis Hamilton’s team-mate
Valtteri Bottas was a Mercedes driver for four seasons, alongside Lewis Hamilton. A period during which he was largely dominated by the Briton.
Valtteri Bottas was Lewis Hamilton’s teammate for four seasons. For the 2017 season, the Finn arrived from the Williams garage, following the surprise departure of Nico Rosberg. From 2017 to 2022, Valtteri Bottas faced the ogre Lewis Hamilton. While the now Sauber driver has won ten races in the Mercedes single-seater, his British teammate and rival dominated the debates with 50 Grand Prix victories and especially four world championships.
In order to avoid falling into a lack of confidence, Valtteri Bottas would mentally start from scratch with each new championship. « I was in denial for almost five years because each year, I wanted to start the season again and then fight for the title and I had to believe in myself », the Finn confessed to AutoSport.
A departure announcement that was positive
During 2021, Valtteri Bottas learned that he would give up his Mercedes seat for the benefit of George Russell for the 2022 season. With this announcement and the non-renewal of his contract, the former teammate of Hamilton felt more relaxed. By accepting that he cannot compete with the six-time World Champion, the Finn has been driving with more pleasure.
« When I knew I was leaving the team, I noticed that I was a bit more comfortable with certain things », Valtteri Bottas explained to the English-speaking media. « With Lewis, it was only last year that I was able to accept that with equal cars, over a full season, I really struggled to beat him. He is probably better in certain areas. As a racing driver, admitting that is difficult. »
No regrets
Valtteri Bottas explained that during team meetings, Mercedes made no hint that he could beat Lewis Hamilton. The teams base themselves on statistics and data obtained in simulators and on track. « They were quite open meetings », testified the Finn. « Everything is based on facts and on what they can see through the data on these things. You could see the average difference in qualifying or race pace. Nothing has been avoided but I have no regrets because it was a tricky situation for me as I was under a one-year contract each year. »
The Finn added that Sergio Perez could « have a similar experience ». The Mexican arrived alongside the irreplaceable Max Verstappen. In 2021, he also contributed enormously to the final victory of the Dutchman over Lewis Hamilton, considerably delaying the Briton. However, in 2023, the Mexican was dominated head and shoulders.
