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Bottas not worried about gap to Ferrari yet

Bottas not worried about gap to Ferrari yet

01-03-2019 14:00
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Jake Williams-Smith

Valtteri Bottas says he is not worried about Mercedes being behind Ferrari ahead of the season opener in Melbourne. Throughout testing, times have indicated that the Italian team might have stolen a march on their rivals.

Although testing means there will be an asterisk next to the fast times due to unknown fuel loads and engine settings, Ferrari appears to have lept out of the box to a commanding lead over the field.

Bottas admitted that the red cars were likely faster than Mercedes at this early stage but added he was not yet worried about the prospect of being behind.

"The improvements we made for the second test have made the car better. Whether it's enough to be competitive in Australia remains a question mark.

"Ferrari is still very strong. Things can change for the start of the season, but when I look at our situation, it's clear that we can do more.

"We are still right at the beginning with this car. As we progress, I'm not worried."

Bottas also predicted that it could be a tight battle with Red Bull also, with the four-time champions stating they have made a step forward with Honda power.

"I don't think the difference between us and them (Red Bull) is massive. But Ferrari is ahead of us. I also think the whole field has moved closer together."