Valtteri Bottas claims that 2022 F1 cars will feel about the same despite numerous regulatory changes from the FIA. The Finn made these comments after trying out the new cars in a simulator.
A new era of @ F1 begins right here …
We’re launching our F1 car from 2022 for the first time – the W13 is ALIVE. 
A new era of @ F1 begins right here … 
We are launching our 2022 F1 car for the first time – the W13 is ALIVE.
https://t.co/fphuaVp2dI
While all of the F1 teams try to understand the massive changes the new season will bring, ex-Mercedes driver Valtteri Bottas claims they feel about the same in the simulator. Teams have shifted their focus to building the perfect car for the next season, with the FIA claiming the new cars will result in a closer wheel-to-wheel race.
Bottas, who tested cars for both Mercedes and Alfa Romeo in 2022, told Motorsport.com:
“At least the cars seemed a bit out of hand at the time. Normal in terms of downforce. But the overall feeling, at least from the Sim, wasn’t that different. We can’t simulate other cars chasing on the track and stuff like that, but it’s not that different. Maybe they have a little less downforce, but as I said, that will change. “
Valtteri Bottas feels that 2020 F1 cars will be more fun than 2021 cars due to the higher downforce. The 32-year-old also said that the intensity of future wheel-to-wheel racing will reduce the loss of “fun” more than can compensate. He said:
“It was fun, especially last year. The cars were even faster than this year, with more downforce. But hey, if the action on the track is better next year and we can follow each other more closely, then it should be even more fun. “
The Finn had a strong last season with Mercedes, finishing third in the drivers ‘championship and at the same time helping the team to the eighth Constructors’ Cup in a row.
Lewis Hamilton called Valtteri Bottas “best F1 teammate”
Lewis Hamilton called Valtteri Bottas his best teammate of all time and praised him for his consistency at Mercedes. Bottas was the perfect wingman for Hamilton, finishing second in the drivers’ championship in 2019 and 2020.
I am very proud to have worked with @ValtteriBottas for the past 5 years. We were part of a team that had 4 constructors’ championships and we motivated each other to continue mastering the ups and downs. Thank you VB
let’s finish strong. I am incredibly proud to have worked with @ValtteriBottas for the past 5 years. We were part of a team that had 4 constructors’ championships and we motivated each other to continue mastering the ups and downs. Thank you VB
let’s finish strong. https://t.co/4YRJAhCzSN
The Finn finished his 101st and final race for Mercedes at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix earlier this month. He will replace his compatriot Kimi Raikkonen at Alfa Romeo next year.
Hamilton praised the 32-year-old driver on a social media post, saying:
“He was the best teammate I’ve had the pleasure to work with. Your speed and resilience were impressive, but what really sets you apart is who you are. You are bigger than you think and I know that you have a bright future ahead of you. ”
also readArticle goes below
George Russell will replace Valtteri Bottas at Mercedes, with the F1 brotherhood expecting great things from the young British driver.
Sign in to reply
