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Reuters

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Reuters

Valtteri Bottas had his fair share of problems during the second practice session at the Styrian Grand Prix. However, it could have been worse for the Finn as he spun in the pit lane, almost hitting members of the McLaren clan.

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Fortunately, the papaya pit crew did help the Mercedes driver turn himself around and exit the pitlane, as he had to put in laps for FP2 at the Red Bull Ring.

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Valtteri Bottas spins in the pit lane

As Bottas was leaving the pit with a fresh set of tires, he didn’t generate enough grip in his rear. Hence, as he exited the Mercedes garage, he spun and almost crashed into some of the crew members from the Woking-based outfit.

Thankfully, no one was harmed, and for a few seconds rivalry was put aside by McLaren. As they helped Bottas straighten his car and head for the pit exit.

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However, the Papaya team soon complained to the FIA boss, Michael Masi, saying, “Michael that’s absolutely ridiculous. It could have taken our guys out there on the pitwall,” to which Masi replied, “Agreed.. thank you.”

Watch Story: When F1 Drivers Had a Blast on Top Gear Featuring Hamilton, Vettel & Ricciardo

How did Bottas do in FP1 & FP2?

After a heartbreaking end at the French GP last weekend, missing out on a podium finish, Bottas is hoping to redeem himself at the Styrian Grand Prix. In the first practice session of the day, Bottas was the fourth fastest, which gave him the boost he needed for FP2.

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However, things went downhill for the Finnish driver as he fell down to P12 on the timesheet. His spin in the pitlane in FP2 must have taken a hit on his confidence.

However, Bottas isn’t one of the drivers to give up easily and is hoping for a better final practice session on Saturday and a stellar qualifying session later in the afternoon.

Being the driver who won a race at the track last season, Bottas is hoping to have a similar performance this weekend and bring home some much-needed points for the Brackley-based squad.

Read More: WATCH: Valtteri Bottas Gives Tour Of Mercedes’ Special Motorhome

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Arpit Gomes

1,284 Articles

Arpit Gomes is an F1 author at EssentiallySports. Currently pursuing his Journalism degree from Xavier’s Institute, he is a big fan of McLaren and their driver Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo. Arpit always looks forward to the paddock moving to Spa and drivers dealing with the exciting Eau Rouge corner as well the straight at Monza. When he's not writing about F1 or watching Drive to Survive, Arpit can be found producing documentary films.

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