Hamilton 'immensely proud' to have worked alongside Bottas

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Lewis Hamilton has paid a heartfelt tribute to his long-standing Mercedes teammate Valtteri Bottas following the announcement of the latter's transfer to Alfa Romeo next season, expressing his pride in working alongside the Finn for five years.

Bottas moved to Mercedes in 2017 in the wake of Nico Rosberg's retirement from the sport.

The quiet Finn's presence in the team restored a harmony and balance that had been lost at the Brackley squad, eroded by the tense and fierce rivalry between Hamilton and Rosberg.

While Bottas always ambitioned to raise his game at the start of every season, fighting a Hamilton in his prime was always going to be a tall order for his teammate.

Read also: Bottas signs multi-year deal with Alfa Romeo Racing!

In addition to his nine career wins with Mercedes, the 31-year-old's contribution to the German manufacturer's championship winning campaigns has been significant, with Hamilton often the recipient of the Finn's unwavering support as a faithful and uncontroversial team player.

The Briton took to social media on Monday to express his gratitude for his teammate's contribution and support, as a driver but also as an individual.

"I’m immensely proud to have worked alongside @valtteribottas for the last five years," wrote Hamilton.

"Together, we’ve been part of a team that has delivered four Constructors’ Championships, and we’ve motivated one another to keep pushing through the ups and the downs.

"He has been the best teammate I’ve had the pleasure of working with.

"Your speed and resilience has been impressive but where you truly stand out to me is the human being you are. You are greater than you know and I know there’s a bright future ahead for you.

"Thank you Valtteri for all of your support and amazing contributions to this team. You will be missed.

"I wish you all the best for your future endeavours🙏🏾 let’s finish off strong and get that 8th for the team👊🏾"

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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.