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The Finnish driver left Mercedes after the 2021 season to join Alfa Romeo-Sauber after a five-year stay.
Valtteri Bottas reflects on his time as Lewis Hamilton’s teammate at Mercedes, stating that he was in a state of denial throughout their partnership. Despite winning 10 Grands Prix and helping Mercedes secure five Constructors’ titles, Bottas struggled to consistently match Hamilton’s performance over a full season. Bottas admits that it was challenging to accept that Hamilton was better in certain areas and that he struggled to beat him in equal machinery. Being on a one-year contract every year made the situation difficult for Bottas, as he knew he needed to maintain a positive relationship with the team in order to continue fighting for the championship. He leaves Mercedes after the 2021 season and joins Alfa Romeo-Sauber with a long-term contract in place. Bottas has no regrets but acknowledges that admitting Hamilton’s superiority as a racing driver was a tough reality to face.
