Alfa Romeo move a chance for Valtteri Bottas to emerge from Lewis Hamilton’s shadow, says Fred Vasseur

Valtteri Bottas’ future boss Fred Vasseur believes that the Finn enjoys an opportunity to no longer “be in the shadow” of Lewis Hamilton when he joins Swiss outfit Alfa Romeo next season. Bottas has signed a multi-year deal with Alfa Romeo. The racer is reuniting with Vasseur, with whom he spent three years at ART in F3 and GP3, ending what will be a five-year stay at Mercedes. Bottas has so far won nine races and contributed to four constructors’ titles with the latter.

“Valtteri Bottas has to become the leader”

Vasseur believes the new environment at Alfa Romeo will help Bottas excel. It will also shift the tag of being known as seven-time world champion Hamilton’s teammate.

“They won eight championships (four drivers for Hamilton and four constructors’) together. He was always known as Lewis’ team mate. The new chapter with us is that he has to become the leader. I don’t want to have a situation of number one and number two but at least he won’t be in the shadow of someone,” said Vasseur in an intereaction with F1.com.

“He has to take the responsibility of the team on his shoulders. It could be a new chapter and I hope perhaps he will also benefit from this environment. I know the guy is dedicated. I know he is more than professional. The speed is there. If you compare with Lewis, he is the closest guy of Lewis. And Lewis is an absolute reference for me. Altogether, I think he is the perfect package for us,” he added.

“I’m excited to join Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN”

The Finn’s experience will be key to Alfa Romeo, as they look to make a move towards the front of the grid next year.

“A new chapter in my racing career is opening: I’m excited to join Alfa Romeo Racing ORLEN for 2022 and beyond for what is going to be a new challenge with an iconic manufacturer. Alfa Romeo is a brand that needs no introduction, they have written some great pages of Formula 1 history and it’s going to be an honour to represent this marque. The potential of the setup in Hinwil is clear and I am relishing the opportunity to help lead the team forward up the grid, especially with the new regulations in 2022 giving the team a chance to make a leap in performance,” said Bottas as quoted by Formula 1’s official website.

“I’m grateful for the trust the team has put in me and I cannot wait to repay their faith: I’m as hungry as ever to race for results and, when the time comes, for wins. I know Fred [Vasseur] well and I am looking forward to getting to know the rest of the team I am going to work with, building relationships as strong as the ones I have at Mercedes. I am proud of what I have achieved in Brackley and I am fully focused on finishing the job as we fight for another world championship, but I am also looking forward to the new challenges that await me next year,” he added.