World Champion Lewis Hamilton believes his partnership with Valtteri Bottas at Mercedes is the “greatest in terms of respect and team work” in the history of Formula 1.
Bottas joined Mercedes at the start of 2017 in place of retired World Champion Nico Rosberg, and Hamilton has gone on to take the title in both years alongside the Finn.
Hamilton believes the manner in which Bottas conducts himself, both on- and off-track, has been influential in his own title success in 2018.
“One of the most difficult moments of the year was in Russia for me,” said Hamilton.
“Being at the core of me I want to win the race, by winning the race.
“Being let by in Russia was a horrible feeling for, I would say, I think everyone in the team felt it. I think also for Valtteri it was not a great feeling.
“We have such a huge respect for each other. I see how hard he works, he sees how hard I work, we don't play games in between to try to throw off the guy.
“In actual fact, we work together. There are times where I’ve figured something out in my set-up and I’ll tell [him] and there are times that I can talk to him and be open.
“It’s the greatest partnership in terms of respect and teamwork from drivers that I’m sure has ever existed in Formula 1 probably."
Hamilton added that Bottas started the 2018 season "really strong" but was on the receiving end of some misfortune.
“This year definitely there have been times when he has been fundamental in us winning races," said Hamilton.
“Ultimately, the team don’t care which driver wins, so there are scenarios where he could have been up ahead and I’m the second driver and I needed to play my role.
“My goal, in my mind, was “OK, I’ve got to make sure I’m always ahead”. If it comes to a point that you need someone to support, it’s Valtteri.
“This year, he started out really strong and then he had some really difficult races.
“I think Baku, for example, was a huge hit for him. He deserved that win and then he got that tyre blow up.
“I’m very, very grateful to him as a team-mate and for the help that he has given me in achieving this incredible dream so a big, big thank you to him.”
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