George Russell is preparing for Valtteri Bottas’s return to Mercedes in 2025, a figure who could play a key role in understanding the secrets of Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton. Not only that: the Finnish driver’s return will mark a new beginning for the British driver, considering the clashes they had in the past.
The relationship between George Russell and Valtteri Bottas has had its ups and downs, marked by competitive tension during their time together at Mercedes. Valtteri Bottas, who left Mercedes at the end of the 2021 season, moved to Alfa Romeo, powered by Ferrari, after several years of success with the dominant team.
Can Mercedes compete with Ferrari?
This transition has given Valtteri Bottas insights into Ferrari’s working methods and performance, which George Russell hopes to take advantage of. With Bottas’s experience both at Mercedes and with Ferrari-powered cars, Russell sees a significant opportunity to enhance their understanding of Ferrari’s strategies and performance.
“Hearing about his last years at Sauber, with the Ferrari engine, could be crucial,” George Russell stated. “You always have to keep an open mind about what others are doing, and he has all of that in his background.”
“Obviously, years ago we were perceived as not having a good relationship, but we are both professionals,” he noted. “Our relationship has grown; we often travel together and see each other in hotels or at the gym.” – the British driver pointed out.
In short, according to the Mercedes driver, Valtteri Bottas’s return could be extremely useful from this perspective as well. Furthermore, the Finn’s experience will be valuable for newcomer Kimi Antonelli in his first year with Mercedes and in Formula 1.
Source: f1ingenerale
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