Valtteri Bottas is confident he can beat his new team-mate Lewis Hamilton at his own game, as demonstrated by Nico Rosberg last season.
However, Bottas is more than aware that he still has a lot to prove; the ex-Williams Martini Racing driver is yet to record a win, though he does hold nine podiums to his name. And not only is he in a tricky seat opposite a three-time champion, but he is also facing external opinions such as those from Anthony Hamilton. But Bottas has hope that a win and title are not out of the question, as proven by Rosberg.
“I feel it is possible,” Bottas told Sky Sports. “Nico showed beating Lewis is possible.
“But I really respect what he has done with his career. He has so many poles, wins – three titles – and I still don’t have a race win. I have a lot to prove.”
The move from the middle of the grid to frontrunners is promised to be anything but easy, and Bottas will have a lot to learn as well as prove. But the Finn demonstrates both confidence and drive that are essential to achieve any success within the sport.
“If the car is the strongest, yes [I can fight for the title],” he added. “I’m not here to be in second place or worse. It is definitely a challenge, and going up against Lewis is always going to be a challenge.
“But for me, it’s a massive opportunity. Everything is still ahead, so it’s going to be an exciting year.”
