Sauber driver Valtteri Bottas has made a striking admission about the perceived fairness of Formula 1. In a candid discussion, Bottas revealed his thoughts on the significant impact that technology and machinery have on the sport, likening it to his experiences in cycling events, which he describes as more balanced.
Bottas, who has enjoyed a varied Formula 1 career, from winning ten grands prix with the dominant Mercedes team to struggling without points in 2024 with Sauber, shared his insights during the Pitlane Life Lessons podcast. Former McLaren mechanic and F1 commentator Marc Priestley recounted an interview with a former Jaguar F1 team member who transitioned to British Cycling. Priestley noted, “Formula 1 is 90 percent the car, 10 percent the driver. Cycling is almost exactly the opposite.”
Bottas agreed, stating, “You need the car, you need the team if you want to succeed. And it’s not a fair sport, that’s for sure.” He finds solace in cycling, where he feels the competition is much fairer. “You, as a human, you are the engine, you are the machine,” he said, highlighting that human effort plays a more significant role in cycling compared to Formula 1.
Bottas has become increasingly involved in cycling competitions, recently qualifying for the 2024 UCI Gravel World Championships. His involvement in the sport is also influenced by his relationship with Australian cyclist Tiffany Cromwell. Bottas expressed that the chance to compete on an equal footing with others is refreshing. “Pretty much everyone, more or less, they have the same chances to win or do well,” he said.
The driver’s reflections on cycling as a “balancing factor” reveal his appreciation for sports where success relies more on human capability than machinery. Bottas continues to strive for success in both Formula 1 and cycling, seeking new opportunities and embracing the challenges each sport offers.
Valtteri Bottas’ views on the fairness of Formula 1 shed light on the significant role that technology and team resources play in a driver’s success. His passion for cycling, where the playing field is more level, offers him a refreshing contrast and a personal challenge. As Bottas competes for a new F1 contract and continues his cycling endeavors, his journey underscores the diverse ways athletes seek fulfillment and success.
