Valtteri Bottas commenced the Japanese Grand Prix from the 13th grid position and concluded the race in 14th place as the chequered flag was waved. The race began chaotically, resulting in an early red flag due to a collision between Albon’s Williams and RB’s Ricciardo at turn 3.
Bottas skillfully outmaneuvered Ricciardo and Tsunoda on soft compound tires, advancing to P11 before the red flag appeared. Following the race restart, he swiftly passed Hülkenberg, securing P10 and valuable points. Bottas’ strategic pit stop on Lap 7 for hard compound tires, with a quick 4-second pit stop time, enabled him to undercut Tsunoda.
This efficient pit stop was a significant improvement for the team compared to the longer stops seen in previous races this season.
Valtteri Bottas showcased his exceptional skills by overtaking 6 competitors to secure the 11th position, setting himself up for a points-scoring opportunity at Suzuka with only Magnussen ahead. Unfortunately, a second pit stop on Lap 23 saw him fall behind Magnussen, Sargeant, Tsunoda, and Stroll. Despite his best efforts, he was unable to regain his position.
The 10-time Grand Prix champion emphasized the importance of strategizing effectively, hinting that a longer middle stint might have been a more favorable choice considering the pit stop challenges.
Bottas believed that P10 was within reach at one point during the race, but the second pit stop hindered his progress, leaving him behind Magnussen for the remainder of the race.
