Bottas and Zhou battle over the C42 of Alfa Romeo

After five seasons with the Silver Arrows, Finnish driver Valtteri Bottas is now in control of the Alfa Romeo C42. He only completed 54 laps during the Catalan tests, while his new teammate Guanyu Zhou reached 104 laps. And for good reason. Just like the other teams, Alfa Romeo suffered from aquaplaning during the tests. “I think the problem is still somewhat present for all the teams,” Zhou confides. Moreover, other mechanical difficulties have arisen, significantly reducing Valtteri Bottas’ track time.

Third in the general ranking in 2021, Lewis Hamilton’s former teammate spoke about the C42.

I think we are still in the early stages of really uncovering the car. For me, we have had quite limited track time, with only two different tire options and very few changes to the car. So there is still a lot to discover. That’s why we want to work hard between the tests and hopefully get a better understanding in Bahrain, he said.

Bottas remains optimistic about the car nonetheless. « There is work to be done. I’m not saying otherwise. But I also sense that there is potential in this livery. I am excited to discover more with the team, Valtteri Bottas added.

For Guanyu Zhou, a newcomer in Formula 1, the experience of the Finn is a blessing. Being the only rookie on the grid brings some pressure, of course, but it doesn’t affect me. […] For a rookie, there is no better option than having Bottas as a teammate for his first season. […] He shares his information and discusses with the team and me, which is very helpful. I think he is an excellent reference and a very strong teammate. I hope we will improve together.

From March 10th, the drivers will gather in Bahrain for the final winter tests before the first Grand Prix ten days later.