The Finn spent much of the year fighting to show his Mercedes bosses that he deserved a new deal for 2022.
However, a string of frustrating races and George Russell’s persistently impressive form resulted in Mercedes choosing not to keep him.
Instead, Bottas has secured a move to Alfa Romeo for the next season, and he says that deal made a noticeable difference in his approach.
As his future was announced before the Italian Grand Prix, Bottas was fastest in qualifying at Monza and won the sprint race, scored points in Russia despite an engine penalty, then started from pole and triumphed in Turkey.
In the last three races he has scored a total of 51 points, well ahead of Max Verstappen’s 36 and Lewis Hamilton’s 35.
About the reasons why he achieved a purple form of form, Bottas said: “Well, I’ve really always had the confidence, but it’s nice to have a win and remember that you can win races. It’s been a while.
“But to be honest, after Monza I am definitely very relaxed and could only concentrate on driving, and that certainly helps.”
Valtteri Bottas, Mercedes W12
Photo by: Steve Etherington / Motorsport Images
While Bottas won’t stay with Mercedes for the next season, he says his team’s attitude is the same as before and he hasn’t been excluded from technical meetings.
“I think the team was good, nothing really changed,” he said. “Everything is normal and the team has a good spirit overall, and we are very motivated for the rest of the year and work hard as always.
“During these five years I’ve been in every meeting I’ve attended before. If there are other meetings, I don’t know about them. So everything is normal for me! “
The Mercedes team bosses have been full of praise for Bottas’ performance lately, although boss Toto Wolff did not rule out that the Finn could get more victories for the rest of the season.
“It may not be his last this season,” said Wolff after Turkey. “What he delivered [in Turkey] Was incredible. He started from pole with ease, pulled away, he was the fastest on the track, the best in terms of tire management, always had it under control, drove the fastest lap.
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“This is a 10 out of 10 and he can play an important role in the Constructors Championship. But also to support Lewis, because only Valtteri’s performance prevented Max from taking eight more points. “
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