Pole proves Bottas on the right trajectory - Wolff

Valtteri Bottas' performance in qualifying yesterday clearly demonstrated the Finn's improved understanding of his Mercedes W08, says Toto Wolff.

Bottas was alone to defend the Silver Arrows team's performance on Saturday after team mate Lewis Hamilton crashed out of qualifying with a surprising fracas.

He stepped up to the challenge however, topping the time-sheet and achieving his third career pole, confirming his level of performance is once again ramping up after a lull which set in over the summer.

• Hamilton crashes out of qualifying!

"He was on an upward slope in the last races but this weekend was very good, every session he was competitive," Wolff said.

"For me it’s a positive indication that he’s understanding the car better and is on the right trajectory.

"I think it’s those little steps he’s made to understand why the tyre doesn’t perform or why he’s not having the tyre in the right window."

Following both Hamilton and Bottas' difficulties in mastering their temperamental W08 chassis this season, Wollf labeled its charger a "diva".

But both the team and Bottas have made great strides in improving the car's all round consistency.

"The car is very sensitive and the tyre is very sensitive and you can see that with other teams as well, little steps can throw you off the grip curve.

"He’s putting the dots together and this has eventually led to better performance."

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