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Bottas Has "No More Excuses" says Hamilton

18:06, 13 Mar 2018

byNicolás Quarles van Ufford

Lewis Hamilton has predicted that his teammate Valtteri Bottas will have a stronger season in 2018, saying the Finn will most likely hit the ground running this year and he "has no more excuses."

Bottas enters his second season at Mercedes in 2018 after replacing then-reigning world champion Nico Rosberg in January 2017, who decided to retire from the sport shortly after winning his first championship.

Bottas managed three victories and four pole positions in his debut year for the Silver Arrows, but was left in the shadows of Hamilton, who accumulated 60 more points on his way to his fourth championship. Does Hamilton think his teammate will be tougher to beat in the upcoming season?

“No. But I would say that about anyone," Hamilton insisted.

“It’s not just about Valtteri. Last year it was difficult for him coming into a new team, learning new ways and new controls and I think that now he’s got through that whole learning process."

“So now I think he’s going to hit the ground running. There’s no more excuses."

“He did great in the last couple of races, which was awesome and I’m expecting him to be in tip-top shape for the season."

“Do I expect him to be closer? I assume so. I have to assume he’s going to be in the best shape possible."

“But then again so am I so that’s my goal.”