The Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team returned to Silverstone Circuit on Tuesday to practice protocols for Formula 1’s new safety regulations ahead of the Australian Grand Prix next month.
While the test offered Bottas the chance to re-acclimatise to driving an F1 car, the priority was for him and team personnel to familiarise themselves with the new safety protocols that will be in place at the races.
This includes using face masks and other protective equipment, with social distancing measures also in place and all team members testing negative for COVID-19 before being allowed to attend the test.
Bottas, who was behind the wheel of the team's 2018 car, the Mercedes-AMG F1 W09 EQ Power, said in a video released by Mercedes on social media: “I think it was a very helpful day. Obviously, everyone being out from racing and garage environment for a long time and there are obviously many new regulations and we need to be cautious with different things for health.
“So it was good to practice that and I think we learned a lot during the day about how to do things more efficiently and make sure that everyone is going to be safe when we eventually start racing.”
@voice_of_mai
