Bottas: 'We may not be teammates anymore, but we're still mates'

After five years with Mercedes, perhaps the most successful driver duo in Formula One history came to an end this season. Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas were jointly responsible for five constructor titles for Mercedes. Even after Bottas' departure to Alfa Romeo, the two drivers maintained a close relationship.

Relationship between Bottas and Hamilton nothing changed

To the outside world, the relationship between Hamilton and Bottas did not always seem optimal. Especially when Bottas had to let the seven-time world champion pass him on the track, the frustration was palpable. Nevertheless the relationship between the two drivers was always good and according to Bottas it is no different now.

In an interview with People Bottas explains that Hamilton and he went to Dubai together after the first Grand Prix and also flew from Dubai together to the race in Saudi Arabia. "We still share flights. In a way, nothing has changed. We may not be teammates anymore, but we are still mates."

Difficult to have friendships with other drivers

Bottas and Hamilton still have a good relationship. Maybe even a friendship. "I think that will definitely continue as well," the Finn said. "We have achieved a lot together as teammates."

However, Bottas does think that in general it is very difficult to have real friendships with other Formula One drivers. The ten-time Grand Prix winner thinks it is different with Hamilton because off the track they can both put aside the fact that they are competitors.