Hamilton believes Bottas 'truly deserved win'

Lewis Hamilton believes that Valtteri Bottas "truly deserved" his win in at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, following a faultless performance from the Finn which saw Mercedes take their fourth one-two win of the season.

Bottas took pole position in qualifying and fended off an initial overtaking attempt from Hamilton in the first two corners of the race, then proceeded to control the race from the front.

Having sat behind Bottas for the entire race, Hamilton launched a last-gasp attempt for victory in the final three laps, however he lost time running over the exit curb of Turn 16 and had to settle for second place.

Hamilton said that Bottas earned the win for his drive in the race, adding that the team's start to the season is the best they've had.

"He made no mistakes and truly deserved the win," Hamilton said of his teammate.

"It was all us in qualifying, but it's a great result to the team. This is the best start we've ever had.

"It's a team effort and everyone back at the factory non-stop, every year they come back more hungry for success.

"It's a true testament to the strength in depth in the team, it was a really great race; for once we were able to push all the way, which is pretty cool."

Following Bottas' win, Hamilton now sits second in the Driver' Championship, one point behind the Finn.

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