F1 makes young drivers too “standard” for Bottas
Valtteri Bottas believes that it has become difficult for drivers to show their personality in the business-oriented Formula 1 environment. The Finnish driver has decided not to take himself as seriously as before.
Not easy to see the true personalities
It hasn’t escaped anyone’s notice, Valteri Bottas has transformed since leaving Mercedes, to the point of becoming one of the most fun drivers in the paddock. He, who went through a mentally challenging period and even considered quitting F1 in 2014 after his first season, then experienced being the number 2 in the shadow of Hamilton within the Mercedes team, is now flourishing at Alfa Romeo.
Bottas thinks that the big business approach of F1 has made it harder for young drivers in recent years to show a relaxed side.
It is sometimes difficult to see the true personalities on the track. It is obvious that once one knows the drivers better off the track, their true personality can truly be seen. But the way interviews are conducted, the way you behave with sponsors, it is generally quite standard, said the 2019 and 2020 vice World Champion in a long interview granted to the magazine GP Racing, in which he poses nude.
Bottas admitted that it would not have been possible for him to do this photoshoot earlier in his career.
« I don’t take myself too seriously »
« Over the past ten years, some, like Daniel Ricciardo, have truly displayed their personality. I think it’s good to see that, but it’s because it’s a serious business and there are major companies and a lot of money at stake. »
Now, it’s a little easier. I don’t take myself too seriously. Times have changed, that’s for sure, but it’s part of the sport when you’re a beginner, you go through the system and you’re almost educated on how to behave, etc.
As a beginner, I wouldn’t have come to the paddock wearing a tank top and flip-flops, even a few years ago, he also acknowledged. Far from the system, the eccentric Scandinavian thrives mostly in extracurricular activities. For example, he is a co-owner of a coffee roasting company based in Finland. At the Australian GP, he could be seen wearing a combo of flip-flops and a tank top featuring his mullet haircut, which quickly sparked controversy on social media. He even introduced his brand of gin, Oath, in collaboration with his partner, Australian professional cyclist Tiffany Cromwell.
Still, Valtteri Bottas needs to perform at the wheel this year if he hopes to be part of the Audi adventure in F1.
