What so many drivers wouldn’t give to be in Valterri Bottas’ shoes right now. The Mercedes man practically has all the tools, and even the race craft to be a World Champion himself.

However, the only problem? His own teammate, Lewis Hamilton, blocking his path to glory. In that regard, there will certainly be a sense of frustration from Bottas’ end.

He did everything humanly possible to secure provisional pole at the Portuguese GP. But Lewis being Lewis, blitzed in with his own effort, and snatched it away from him.

Valtteri Bottas will need to look elsewhere for motivation

The Finn can take pride in knowing that he is faster than 18 other drivers on the grid. And even all of those who are desperate to land an F1 seat and are waiting in the wings. However, is that enough?

Writing in his column on Sky Sports, F1 expert Martin Brundle stated, “I find it uncomfortable to interview him immediately after a race, looking in his eyes to see a mix of fading adrenalin and disappointment.

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“Trying to find the right words to tread a middle ground of celebrating another podium. While he’s been trounced again by his team-mate. “f you’re going to have to fight Hamilton then it might as well be in the equal fastest car.

“But if Lewis re-signs for multiple years, then Valtteri will surely have to look elsewhere on the grid for his own self-esteem and motivation,” concluded Brundle on the subject.

Bottas was phenomenal across most of the weekend. But having dominated Free Practice Sessions and the majority of Qualifying, the net result saw him fall short in front of the record-breaker, Hamilton.

The Mercedes driver finished P2 in the Portuguese GP

It is most certainly an unusual situation to be in for Valtteri Bottas. The occasional wins and frequent podium finishes are good for him; however, the championship has forever eluded him.

In the opening 7 laps after Sainz had settled into the lead, it was Bottas who pushed the throttle to restore Mercedes’ dominance. But such was the handling from Hamilton, that he passed Bottas comfortably, and ensured that it was plain sailing towards the end.

It has been that kind of story for Bottas this season. With the domination of pre-race sessions just not translating into performance in the main race.

And with 5 races to go this season, all that Bottas can do sadly, is delay Hamilton’s coronation for a 7th Drivers’ title. A reward in its own right perhaps.