Bottas speaks on playing wingman at Sochi

Utkarsh Bhatla | 30/09/2018
Bottas confirms he won't be wingman

Valtteri Bottas was put into a very uncomfortable position today by the Mercedes team, as team orders were imposed and Bottas was asked to make way for Hamilton, in order to shield him from the pressure that Vettel was putting on him.

James Voyes told Bottas that the move had to be carried out as Hamilton’s tyres were experiencing some blistering and that Vettel was putting a lot of pressure on him.

Bottas was obviously dejected with the move, and just as he allowed Hamilton to get past him, he told his engineer that he was going to go faster next lap.

In the post race Interview, an emotional Valtteri Bottas said that the team had to do what it had to do.

Hamilton brought about a wonderful gesture, not celebrating the win, and immediately going to  his teammate to console him about  what had just transpired on the circuit.

The celebrations were subdued from Mercedes, as the decision was a tough one for everyone involved.

“A difficult day. A good result for us a team with maximum points. But personally a difficult race. We always go through all the scenarios and all the facts. Ultimately, Lewis is fighting for the Championship and the team for the Constructors.” Bottas said right after the race.

“It’s actually quite a difficult day. Valtteri was a real gentleman to let me through. To have a one-two – usually we’d be elated. Valtteri deserved to win… but today it was a real team effort” Hamilton said.

Post Edited By: Utkarsh Bhatla
Bottas Hamilton Mercedes

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Utkarsh Bhatla

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