Hamilton confident of "bright future" for departing Mercedes team-mate Bottas

Lewis Hamilton has paid a glowing tribute to departing team-mate Valtteri Bottas in the wake of the Finn's move to Alfa Romeo.

After five years as Hamilton's team-mate, Bottas will leave Mercedes at the end of this season after signing a multi-year contract with Alfa Romeo.

During their four previous years as a partnership, Mercedes has won consecutive constructors' titles, with Bottas often serving as Hamilton's number two to help the Briton to a further four drivers' titles over the same period.

“I’m immensely proud to have worked alongside Valtteri Bottas for the last five years,” Hamilton wrote in a post on social media.

“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 team-mate I’ve had the pleasure of working with.”

Extoling the virtues of Bottas, who is now set to be replaced by George Russell - with confirmation expected on Tuesday - Hamilton added: “Your speed and resilience have 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 eighth [title] for the team.”

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