Mercedes AMG F1 non-executive chairman Niki Lauda sees no reason why Valtteri Bottas would not be just as fast as Nico Rosberg, the man he is replacing at the German outfit.
Lauda is not only convinced that Mercedes got their hand on the best man for the job, the F1 legend also believes that Bottas will give Lewis Hamilton a run for his money.
"Bottas is the best man," Lauda told German broadcaster RTL.
"I believe he can drive just as fast as Nico. This is why we start the new season with him and Hamilton.
"We looked for a driver who fits our team. Until now we always had two top drivers who were able to fight for the world championship. Nico and Lewis were a fine example of that, because they were fighting head-to-head.
"Sometimes one was in front, sometimes the other. In the last three years we won everything there was to win. And this is why we decided to go with Bottas, as he brings experience and speed to the team.
Lauda insisted that no team orders would determine the racing between the Silver Arrows drivers, and Bottas will be free to challenge his team mate at will.
"He is a calm Finn and I like that about him. He doesn't talk a lot but is a hard worker. Toto and I have known him for years. I think he fits really well into the team."
"As always: both drivers can push as much as they want, completely free. This never has changed at Mercedes and it won't change in the future.
"We talked to Lewis and explained to him that Bottas will be driving alongside him. Lewis doesn't have an issue with that and neither does Bottas. I think we can go calmly into the season with these two drivers."
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