Hamilton sees no difference in Bottas from last season

Lewis Hamilton believes that Valtteri Bottas is the same man he was last season, apart from the Finn's new facial hair.

Bottas rocked up to Melbourne with a new beard and new attitude which, after winning the Australian Grand Prix by 20 seconds over his Mercedes teammate, many believe is a new version of the man dubbed 'wingman' in 2018.

Speaking about Bottas' new found confidence, Hamilton said he didn't see a difference in his approach compared to last season.

"I work with the guy. He’s the same guy he was last year, so no difference for me - except he has a beard!" Hamilton told media ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix.

"Time will tell I guess. I never thought he was a weak person anyway. I’ve always seen him as a strong character.

"It’s very early in the season, just one race, but, for sure, if you look at the result, I can say that something in my mindset has changed for the year.

"The preparation over the winter and the way I feel and think about things have changed, but it’s quite difficult to explain. I feel different from the years before."

Hamilton also added that Bottas' new appearance would not be indicative of how the season will unfold.

"It doesn’t really change a single thing. Last year, he was very strong. It was a good second year for him. He was very unfortunate in many races, and it’s just a continuation on from that.

"There’s only been one race. It was a great race for him, and I look forward to seeing many more good races from him."