Bottas knew of Mercedes’ decision before Spa, ‘excited’ by Alfa Romeo F1 future

On Monday, Alfa Romeo announced Bottas as Kimi Raikkonen’s replacement for 2022, paving way for Russell’s highly-anticipated promotion from Williams to Mercedes.

The Finn will bow out of Mercedes after five seasons, aiding it to four constructors' championships. 

Speaking ahead of this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix, Bottas shed light on when he was told he wouldn't be Hamilton's teammate for 2022.

 “I never really like to share the details of how things went, because it’s quite private the way things work,” Bottas said. “I can say that I knew before Spa what was about to happen.

“Budapest was the last race before the summer break and, still at that point there were no decisions made but then, together, we made the decisions, during the summer, before Spa.”

Looking ahead to his new adventure with Alfa Romeo, Bottas admits he’s ‘excited’ by the challenge ahead in moving the team up the pecking order.

“Because it’s exciting, it’s a great brand, they have a great history in motor racing. I feel like, based on the information I know, they can have a bright future and, hopefully, I can help that,” Bottas added.

“It’s something new, something exciting for me and it will be a bit of a project for me. No doubt there’s going to be work to do, but I’ll give all the expertise I can to help them try to improve from this season, for sure.”

Alfa Romeo has endured a difficult 2021 season with just three points to its name, leaving it only ahead of Haas in the constructors’ championship.

Bottas is confident the team has the ambition and drive that gives him the motivation he needs in F1.

“I can’t tell you everything but they’re serious about the future,” he explained. “Alfa Romeo, as a brand itself, has committed for quite a few years. I don’t want to share to much but we have high expectations, very high goals and, for me that’s really motivating.”