However, in the final laps of the race both Charles Leclerc and Valtteri Bottas seemed to be struggling with the medium tyres, which had run only ten or so true laps thanks to the safety cars that were deployed.

Source: https://www.sbnation.com/2023/4/29/23704091/f1-results-sprint-saturday-azerbaijan-grand-prix

However, there is certainly room for improvement, and Bottas is hoping the team uses this extended break to find what they are missing right now.

Source: https://www.sbnation.com/2023/4/7/23671163/f1-results-verstappen-hamilton-russell-alonso-perez-red-bull-mercedes

Lewis Hamilton has spoken out on Valtteri Bottas' improved mood since he left Mercedes, giving the seven-time champion a potential view at what could be lying in wait for him if he decides to leave the team behind.

Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/f1-autosport/1758594/F1-LIVE-Lewis-Hamilton-to-Ferrari-Mercedes-Max-Verstappen-Red-Bull

The safety car was deployed before the end of the first lap due to debris on the track after heavy contact between Valtteri Bottas and Alex Albon.

Source: https://waterford-news.ie/2023/09/24/max-verstappen-on-verge-of-title-as-red-bull-clinch-constructors-crown-in-japan/

The winner has only come from behind the front row once in the past 12 races when Valtteri Bottas won from third in 2019.

Source: https://japantoday.com/category/sports/f1-leader-verstappen-has-pole-position-at-japan-gp-after-record-winning-streak-ended-in-singapore

Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu were in 16th and 19th for Alfa Romeo, Oscar Piastri in 17th for McLaren and Logan Sargeant in 18th for Williams.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/sep/16/carlos-sainz-claims-singapore-f1-gp-pole-but-furious-verstappen-struggles