Valtteri Bottas says there's no reason why he can't beat rivals Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel to the title this season, as recent performances have put him within touching distance of the pair.
Although Vettel and Hamilton are favourites for the championship, given their experience – they have seven titles between them – and the fact they're equal on race wins this season with four apiece, Bottas has emerged as a candidate after some strong showings recently.
The Finn found himself some way adrift in the standings after the opening races, but a string of five podium finishes since Canada – including a victory in Austria – has seen him close the gap to the leaders and he sits just 33 points off leader Vettel, whilst team-mate Hamilton is just 19 ahead.
Bottas expects that trend to continue, insisting he is getting "better and better" with each race, and therefore sees no reason why he cannot win the title in his maiden season with Mercedes.
"Yes, I can become world champion," said Bottas. "There are still nine races to go, and I believe that I can beat Lewis and Sebastian – I have already done both this year.
"I am getting better and better. There is no limit for me. I would never say that one of my opponents is better than me. I believe in myself."
Bottas has also rejected claims Mercedes may choose to favour Hamilton in a bid to ensure it wins the drivers' championship, insisting he receives equal treatment, as evidenced by the team's order for Hamilton to hand third place back to Bottas if the Briton failed to pass the Ferraris in Hungary.
"The team has made it clear right from the beginning that we are both treated and respected equally," he added.
"We get the same equipment, there is no number one and number two driver, and I trusted that was the case. I am fighting for the world championship, as this is also about my own career.
"I do not want to be in Lewis' shadow.”
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