Valtteri Bottas believes the current lockdown period provides drivers with the ideal chance to improve upon physical and mental strength in order to prepare for a ‘flat out’ 2020 Formula 1 season.
Formula 1 drivers have not raced competitively since last year’s season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, on December 1, while the last on-track action came at pre-season testing, on February 28.
Formula 1 drivers are not due to return to circuit action until the first weekend of July, with championship officials outlining that weekend as a starting date for the 2020 season.
It means that drivers will not have raced for seven months and will not have even sampled their Formula 1 cars for four months.
A defined calendar has yet to be officially confirmed but championship chiefs have outlined the intention to hold at least 15 races before the end of 2020.
“It’s very special circumstances in the world right now, for many at least – including us in F1,” said Bottas, last year’s runner-up, during a video interview conducted by Mercedes.
“For us it is a rare opportunity to have this extra period to build your base condition, to really raise your physical fitness, and to work on your mental strength.
“I’m really trying to make the most out of this and be as strong as ever. I’m sure every driver is trying to do the same.
“But I can’t remember a time I’ve been in one place for so long without travelling somewhere, so it’s unique, and I know when things get back to normal it will be completely flat out, so you will need that mental strength and need to have those batteries full.”
When Formula 1 returns it is set to do so with only essential personnel inside the paddock, while no fans will be permitted to events in Austria, Britain and Hungary, should they take place.
“It will be strange not to have fans, and lack the atmosphere; when driving you’re focusing on that and you can’t hear them but those post-race feelings and podium ceremonies it’s going to be quite different if that’s the case,” said Bottas on the absence of spectators.
“If we are going to be racing without fans I hope everyone can see it on TV, not just limited people.”
