Bottas "meeting his goals" this year in terms of pace

Even though the results aren't going his way yet because of some unfortunate circumstances, Mercedes driver Valtteri Bottas says he's happy at his team as he thinks his good form from the end of last season has translated into this season. 

Bottas has been consistently fighting for wins this season, something that wasn't always as evident in 2017. He's out-qualified his teammate Lewis Hamilton on multiple occasions and doesn't look the clear number two driver anymore.

"I'm happy because I know I can win races," Bottas told Motorsport.com.

"Even though winning is extremely tough this year, the pace is there, so it will come eventually."

Ferrari has looked to have the faster car this year, but Mercedes' unbelievable consistency and reliability has proved its worth and the Silver Arrows sit top in both championships.

"There hasn't been a weekend this year where I really lacked pace," Bottas continued.

"I think I'm meeting my goals more or less in terms of performance, where I lacked pace at times last year."

His team principal Toto Wolff is happy too with the performances of his pupil.

"Valtteri is consistent and has shown improvement over the last few races.

"That proves to us that he was the right choice."