Mercedes AMG F1 non-executive chairman Niki Lauda admits that he feels a lot better now that the conundrum linked to replacing Nico Rosberg has been solved.
A few weeks ago, Lauda said the situation was 'very complicated' as Rosberg's shock decision had left Mercedes hanging dry, which in turn had angered the F1 legend.
But Bottas signing has relieved the tension as the team gets back to business as usual.
"My tension, which had resulted from the withdrawal of Nico, has completely disappeared," Lauda told the German broadcaster RTL. "Bottas is the best man for the job."
Whime many were at a loss to explain why the German manufacturer had not simply promoted Mercedes protege Pascal Wehrlein to the plum race seat, Lauda pointed to experience as the main reason.
"Experience and speed were the reasons we signed Bottas. I believe he can drive as fast as Nico. I believe he can win the world championship."
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