Wolff: ''You can't start with a clear number 1 and 2''

In the last three seasons Bottas has never really been able to claim the title of first driver at Mercedes. Hamilton took the world title three times and left Bottas far behind. The Finn had to respond to a team order several times, once it was clear that Hamilton had the greatest chance of winning the title.

Fair chance for Bottas

''Bottas and Hamilton get fair chances from us, as always, at the beginning of the season. Our drivers should both be able to become champions and I can't imagine starting a team with a clear number 1 and 2. Drivers always have the ambition to win, otherwise they won't be in Formula 1," says Toto Wolff to Österreich.

Whether Bottas will actually qualify for the title in 2020, of course, remains to be seen. The Finn is said to be more motivated and fitter than ever, but also Hamilton will not have stood still. With a passionate Red Bull Racing around the corner pointing all the arrows at Max Verstappen, it is also questionable how long Mercedes will be able to hold out to give both drivers equal chances.