Bottas on Mercedes and Red Bull title race: "Hamilton has priority"

Valtteri Bottas announced this week that he will be part of the Alfa Romeo team next season. However, the Finn will still want to show what he can do for the remainder of this season in his Mercedes.

Speaking at the FIA press conference, Bottas talks about his choice of Alfa Romeo. "Why Alfa Romeo? Because it's exciting, it's a historic brand in Formula 1. From the information I have been given, they are going to have a bright future. No doubt there will be work to do, but I will do my best", he is quoted by FormulaPassion.

The Finn also confirms that Alfa Romeo is not the only team he has spoken with. "Have I spoken to other teams? Yes." As for the team's plans, he can't say much. "I can't say too much yet, but there are some encouraging signs for the future of Alfa Romeo. Realistically it will be difficult to fight for victory next year, but with the rule changes anything can happen."

Title battle in full swing

This weekend, sprint qualifying returns. Bottas sounds quite positive about it. "At this track there are more opportunities to try and overtake in both the sprint race and the race", he said.

One thing is for sure: the battle between Verstappen and Hamilton will be exciting. "I need as many points as possible and so does Lewis, but he is fighting for the championship. Lewis has the priority, but we will see from race to race, depending on the situations", Bottas ends.