Valtteri Bottas says it’s a “shame” that Formula 1 drivers struggle to show off their personalities during grand prix weekends.
In recent years, only a few drivers have stood out for their behaviour and mannerisms during race events.
Bottas says that as he has gained more experience in F1, he has become more confident – which was reflected by his decision to turn up to the Australian paddock last month in a tank top and flip flops.
Other drivers that have showcased their personalities in recent years include Daniel Ricciardo, who was often producing jokes and providing light-hearted answers in interviews.
Lewis Hamilton and the now-retired Sebastian Vettel used their F1 platform to speak about human rights and other matters close to them.
Bottas suggested that with so many major businesses involved in the sport, it’s difficult for some drivers to express their true selves.
“It is a tricky thing and it is sometimes difficult to see the real personalities on track,” he said.
“Obviously, once you get to know the drivers outside the track, then you can really see their personalities but the way you do the interviews, the way you behave in the sport, in the events and so on it’s pretty much standard, so that’s a bit of a shame.
“I think over the last 10 years there were some personalities, like Daniel Ricciardo, who really came up showing his personality and then also Lewis and, later, even Seb and it’s good to see.
“But it’s just how it is, I guess, it’s a serious business and there are big companies involved.”
Bottas also stated that rookie drivers are “almost educated on how to behave and how to brand yourself” in the sport.
And with the Finn growing noticeably more confident in recent years, his progression has been hailed by former Mercedes team-mate Lewis Hamilton.
