Bottas labels Melbourne victory as his 'best ever race'

Valtteri Bottas says that his Grand Prix victory in Australia was his 'best ever race'.

The Finn took his fourth career victory, crossing the finish line 21 seconds ahead of teammate Lewis Hamilton in second place. 

Bottas now holds the lead in the drivers' championship for the first time with 26 points, as he also picked up the extra point on offer for setting the fastest lap of the race.

“I don’t know what to say,” said Bottas after the race. “The start was really good.

“It was definitely my best race ever. I don’t know what happened it just felt so good and everything was under control and the car was so good today. Truly enjoyable.”

Towards the end of the race, Bottas was heard over his radio saying he was focusing on claiming the fastest lap of the Grand Prix, and even considered pitting for fresh tyres in order to do so. 

“I was, definitely,” he said. “That’s a new rule for this year and as I had a really strong pace I wanted to go for that in the end.

“It’s always a bit risky with worn tyres but it was worth it. But I’m just so happy and I can’t wait for the next race.”

Replies (0)

Login to reply

AZ Azerbaijan Grand Prix

Local time 

AZAzerbaijan Grand Prix

Local time 

Test calendar

See full test schedule

World Championship standings 2026

Show full world champion standings

Related news

Give your opinion!

Will Bottas challenge Hamilton for the world championship in 2020?

Formula 1 Calendar - 2026

Date
Grand Prix
Circuit
-
Spain
-
Bahrain
-
Bahrain
6 - Mar 8
Australia
13 - Mar 15
China
27 - Mar 29
Japan
10 - Apr 12
Bahrain
17 - Apr 19
Saudi Arabia
1 - May 3
United States of America
22 - May 24
Canada
5 - Jun 7
Monaco
12 - Jun 14
Spain
See full schedule

Formula 1 Calendar - 2026

Date
Grand Prix & Circuit
6 - Mar 8
Australia Albert Park
13 - Mar 15
27 - Mar 29
10 - Apr 12
17 - Apr 19
Saudi Arabia Jeddah Street Circuit
1 - May 3
United States of America Miami International Autodrome
22 - May 24
5 - Jun 7
Monaco Monte Carlo
12 - Jun 14
See full schedule

Driver profile

  • Team Cadillac F1
  • Points 1,608
  • Podiums 61
  • Grand Prix 211
  • Country FI
  • Date of b. Aug 28 1989 (36)
  • Place of b. Nastola, FI
  • Weight 70 kg
  • Length 1.73 m
Show full profile

Team profile

Show full profile
show sidebar