The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal, Canada is often one that throws a few surprises in the direction of the fans, drivers and teams. This year’s race was no exception. The biggest surprise (and possibly the most pleasant) was the appearance of Williams’ driver, Valtteri Bottas, on the third step of the podium.
Bottas had a very strong weekend in Canada. Finishing with his first podium of the season and ninth podium of his Formula One career was probably both Williams’ and Bottas’ weekend highlight. The 15 points he managed to win were made even sweeter by the fact that his teammate, Felipe Massa, was forced to retire from the race.
Although he drove fantastically, in true Bottas style he thanked his team for giving him a great strategy that he believes helped him grasp his podium finish. I’m sure the team appreciated the thanks but really, what’s a great strategy without a great driver executing it?
After a somewhat quiet start to this season, I’m sure Williams and Bottas have received a significant confidence boost after their result this weekend. I’m also sure that they’ll put that confidence to good use and have another finish like this one under their belts in no time!
Despite his team’s quiet start to this season, Bottas’ race was quite the opposite as he faced on-track challenges from Kimi Raikkonen in his Ferrari and Max Verstappen in his Red Bull. Bottas stayed calm and completed his tasks with incredible skill as he often does.
Congratulations on your podium finish Valtteri! I very much look forward to seeing your next one.
