Valtteri Bottas, Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber, talks to Sportskeeda's Niharika Ghorpade at the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, Formula One World Championship. (Images courtesy: Andy Hone/ Stake F1 Team media hub)
Valtteri Bottas believes it’s challenging to stand out in the midfield, especially when driving an uncompetitive car. Speaking exclusively to Sportskeeda during the Singapore GP, the Sauber (Stake F1) driver explained that midfield performances are often underrated and difficult to assess solely based on race results.
Daniel Ricciardo also shared similar sentiments in Singapore, noting that with only two points-scoring positions (P9 and P10) realistically available to midfield teams, it becomes harder for experienced drivers to demonstrate their skills and make a noticeable impact. With more than six teams and twelve drivers vying for those limited positions, Bottas agreed that it’s difficult for performance to be fairly evaluated purely on results.
The Finnish driver emphasized that outcomes are largely dictated by the car’s competitiveness, and often, solid performances are overshadowed by the machinery's limitations. In his case, despite not securing points in 2024, Bottas remains committed to giving his best, understanding that sometimes the car’s limitations can undermine a driver’s ability to shine.
