Williams driver Valtteri Bottas believes that a more aggressive approach to the end of the 2015 Formula 1 season has changed his conservative image.
The Finnish driver clashed twice with compatriot Kimi Raikkonen towards the end of last season, retiring late from the Russian Grand Prix before breaking the Ferrari driver’s suspension in Mexico.
Bottas admitted that he has a reputation of being a conservative and reliable driver, however was adamant that a more volatile approach to racing will keep fellow drivers on their toes when trying to race him.
“Maybe the last few races I started being more aggressive,” the 26-year old told Autosport.
“Normally I’ve been known as a conservative driver, always bringing the car home.
“I still calculate every risk but at some point there is the situation where it is better not to back off.
“It can either get you a good result or in the worst case maybe some other drivers know that they shouldn’t try that [move against me].”
After the race in Mexico City, Bottas was widely criticised within his own country for ending Raikkonen’s race prematurely, with many believing the Williams racer was seeking revenge for being robbed of a podium finish in Russia.
When probed whether the collision in Russia had led to a more aggressive approach in the subsequent races, Bottas replied: “Maybe.
“For me, it comes quite naturally because it had not been a great season.
“I wanted to fight for every single position and I also want to prove that I can race hard and I’m not going to give up. In some cases, I’m not going to back off.”
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