Bottas takes the blame for botched race

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Valtteri Bottas' body language said it all following a botched performance in today's Chinese Grand Prix in which the Mercedes driver finished sixth.

Looking defeated and frustrated, Bottas rued an early mistake under the Safety Car.

The Finn launched his race from third on the grid and initially held his position behind leaders Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel, but lost a bit of time following a lengthy pit stop.

As he rejoined on slick tyres, Bottas had dropped to fifth and then spun behind the SC as he tried to generate heat into his stone cold tyres.

"It was just my own mistake," Bottas explained.

"I was trying to do everything I can to keep the tyres warm, put temperature in it, I went way too aggressive and I spun. It was my mistake and I'm really sorry for the team, for the points we lost."

Steely Hamilton stays in charge for Shanghai win

The mishap sent Bottas all the way back to 12th, forcing the Finn to battle his way back up the ranks.

"The pace felt good, I felt close to the cars in front especially at the end of the race, but that was still a little bit too late and the laps were running out when I was getting closer," Bottas said.

"I think it was for me to look at the mirror, blame myself, and do better next time."

The Mercedes driver undoubtedly missed out on a podium finish, and to make matters worse, his tongue-slipping race engineer who was pushing him on, called him 'Nico'!

Old habits die hard at Mercedes...

GALLERY: All the pictures from Sunday in Shanghai

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.