Valtteri Bottas is not surprised by Kimi Antonelli’s success. In fact, the Finn has a share in it because last year, as a reserve driver at Mercedes, he supported the Italian with advice. “It’s because of me, I claim Kimi’s success,” Bottas jokes in Montreal.
Read more ‘Way clear for Verstappen’s retry: no Grand Prix during the 24 Hours of Nürburgring’
Three wins, three pole positions, and leader in the World Championship standings: Antonelli was the absolute standout in the first four weekends of this season. And that in only his second year in Formula 1. “I thought from the very first moment that he could do this,” says Bottas.
Also read: ‘Way clear for Verstappen for a new chance’
The current Cadillac driver saw up close how the young Italian developed rapidly last year at Mercedes in his debut season. “He made great strides, experienced unprecedented growth. Soon he was comfortable in the car and also within the team. His confidence grew and his technical feedback improved steadily.”
Read more Christian Horner gets remarkable new role, F1 rumors swell
Bottas continues: “My last advice to him was: keep doing what you were doing. And he has done that. So I am not surprised by how he performs and I am very proud of Kimi.”
Read more Jenson Button advises ‘impressive’ Antonelli: ‘Then he will become unbeatable’
Read everything about the Canadian GP here
