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2016 world champion Nico Rosberg, who was partnered with Lewis Hamilton for four seasons, says that if Valtteri Bottas has a good start to the season in 2019 it could upset the five-time world champion's rhythm.
Rosberg believes that Bottas did not show what he was capable of during a difficult 2018 campaign but thinks that the 29-year-old Finn has the necessary talent to "annoy" Hamilton if he has a strong start to the season in Melbourne.
"Valtteri is a lot better than he's been able to show recently. With a new season starting he has a good chance of establishing himself in a stronger position and even really be annoying Lewis quite a lot."
Rosberg pointed out that Bottas had a lot of bad luck last season as well as a series of low key performances, a combination that led to him failing to reach the top step of the podium. His biggest chance of a win, in Russia, was taken away by team orders, helping to secure both of the championships for the team.
Rosberg also added that he was hoping that Hamilton's and Bottas' rivals, in particular, Max Verstappen will give the Mercedes pairing a run for their money: "It's time for renewed battles up front, and then may the best team win. Mercedes has been the best recently. We want it to go down to the wire, we want to see real action."
Definitely share the sentiment we need a proper battle a-la Hamilton/Rosberg within the team to put pay to the continuous crap-talk about team orders. A strong start for Bot means he won't be in a position where he has to worry about that. However, I cannot see it chaps - motivation levels will be sky high for Hamilton, he wants solo 2nd place in the all-time list, I would imagine that's about as motivational as going for your first WDC (I think about what drives Nadal on at the French) - but does he have the outright speed and mental toughness for a season long battle? Let's see - can't wait !!!
Yeah, and also pigs could fly..
He's got it in him if can keep his nerve.
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calle.itw
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Problem is: Bottas will probably not do what he should do, and just say fuck the team orders, since he is too scared to lose that seat. Instead, he might lose the seat And his F1 participation if he isnt careful.