Bottas: “Here, when I ask for something, it gets done”

He gave the image of a driver completely suffocated by Lewis Hamilton’s domination. Valtteri Bottas’ time at Mercedes will not be remembered in the annals of sport. Despite two second places in the championship and five constructors’ titles, the Finn was never a serious contender for the title. Free from the pressure of having a seven-time world champion as a teammate, Valtteri Bottas has settled at Alfa Romeo, where he finally seems to thrive in a number one role, as he revealed to The Race.

« I really feel like an important part of the team. It’s really great to have real authority over things. If I ask for something, it gets done and everyone listens to me. […] I am very happy with how things are going in the team and with my role. I am not just a driver, but also an important member of the team.

» savors the former Mercedes driver. A big change compared to the position he held at Mercedes where it was very clear that he could not have the same role there as he has here.

After signing two top-ten finishes in three races, Bottas is pleased with the progress shown by Alfa Romeo, despite the team being accustomed to finishing at the back of the grid in recent seasons.

(I) I was really hoping that there would be a step forward compared to previous years. In reality, a big step has been taken! And you know, being able to compete with Mercedes, for example, is beyond what I expected; Now, as soon as we solve our reliability issues, there is no reason why we cannot fight for points, even big points in certain races, (hopes the Finnish driver).

Tenth in the standings, Valtteri Bottas feels much better in his new team and seems to be enjoying his new role as the benchmark driver for his rookie teammate, Guanyu Zhou. Bottas feels happier in life in general, and it shows on the track.