Valtteri Bottas believes Lewis Hamilton’s ability to improve year on year is one of the seven-time world champion’s greatest strengths as the Finn looks to start his new journey at Alfa Romeo after departing from Mercedes.
The Finn joined the team back in 2017 as he replaced Nico Rosberg who had just beaten Hamilton to the title in 2016 before promptly retiring.
But ahead of the Belgium Grand Prix, Mercedes announced Bottas would be replaced by George Russell ahead of the 2022 season, ending his time at the eight-time world champions.
Despite his Mercedes journey coming to an end, Bottas reckons 37-year-old Hamilton will continue to shine at the team.
“You know, with Lewis, what has been really impressive is that every year he’s been able to develop,” said Bottas, quoted by Formula1.com.
“He’s got such big experience in Formula 1 but still he’s been able to always learn more, become better and better.
“For sure, I’ve developed every year as a driver but so has Lewis and it doesn’t come automatically. He works for it because he knows the competition always gets tougher.”
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Hamilton and Rosberg shared a fractious relationship, and stability proved key for Bottas, who remained alongside Hamilton for the next five seasons.
Yet he was unable to beat Hamilton during his stint at Mercedes and often finished runner up behind the seven-time world champion.
“I’ve definitely learned many things from him,” Bottas explained. “Like driving-wise, set-up-wise, lots of small things here and there, but just it’s been impressive that he’s been able to still develop and not get too comfortable, ever.”
Hamilton has since been hugely complimentary of the 32-year-old, hailing Bottas as his best team-mate ever during his time alongside the Briton.
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Hamilton has since been hugely complimentary of the 32-year-old, hailing Bottas as his best team-mate ever during his time alongside the Briton.
“He has been the best team-mate I’ve had the pleasure of working with,” Hamilton wrote on Instagram.