© Steve Etherington for Mercedes-Benz Grand Prix Ltd.
After winning the first race of the 2020 season, Valtteri Bottas returns to the same track this weekend for the Styrian Grand Prix.
Despite winning the Austrian Grand Prix and getting a great start to the season (with his main title rival Lewis Hamilton finishing fourth after receiving a 5 second penalty), Valtteri Bottas isn’t getting carried away just yet.
The Finn has been historically strong at the Red Bull Ring. He got his maiden podium finish there in 2014, scored three pole positions out of four attempts and won the race in 2017 and now 2020, however he doesn’t think his past successes have any bearing on next weekend’s race
“If you look at the numbers and history, yes, it’s been a good track for me, but it’s difficult to say,” said Bottas.
“I don’t know that the reason you know sometimes maybe it can be just how things go. It’s good for you, and sometimes it’s bad.
“Of course some type of corners is better for you and some are worse. I don’t have a clear answer.
“Obviously, this weekend was good, I had good results here, and obviously next week is a new week.
“We start from zero again. Just try to repeat, learn from this week and do it again. Can’t say any more than that.”
Bottas won the opening race of 2019 too, but later fumbled a bit and got overshadowed by his team-mate Lewis Hamilton. The Finn was asked how he plans to avoid this from happening again in 2020.
“Every season is always different from a driver’s point of view,” explained the Finn.
“There can be certain distractions and the main thing is to keep your head very clear. And being able to focus on the driving and feeling well.
“And definitely some races I was lacking pace, was due to knowing that there are things that are driving wise I can do better. And I’ve learned from those.
“Obviously, it’s only the first race of the season and we’ll see how things go. But it’s a good starting point.
“I feel like I said before coming here more complete as a driver. So that’s why I feel confident. Obviously, we will see how things go.
“I’m feeling good, and feeling more complete.”
Do you think Valtteri can do it again this weekend? Can he pose a serious threat for the 2020 title? Voice your opinions in the comments below!
Source: motorsportweek.com
