Cadillac Formula 1 driver Valtteri Bottas has proven his passion for endurance in sports by choosing to cycle 350 kilometres from the Sepang International Circuit to Singapore, opting not to take a flight.
Bottas began his ride at the site of Malaysia’s former F1 circuit venue since 2017 on Sunday. He said he started on slick tires, then spun into gravel and retired nine laps into the race.
“It was always going to be a risk starting on the slicks with the soft tire compound and today, it didn’t quite pay off, Bottas said.
Earlier this year, he told his sponsors that cycling is good for both his body and mind, and he has been riding bikes for years.
“When I’m on my bike, I gain cardio, but I also use the bike almost like a stress release, you know? In a way, it’s a great way to clear my head if I have a bit of stress, and a chance to explore,” he said.
The 37-year-old earned a spot at the Gravel World Championships after finishing in fifth place, qualifying him for the event in the Czech Republic during the F1 summer hiatus.
The Singapore Grand Prix is one of the most demanding races on the F1 calendar, known for its humid conditions and a street circuit that tests drivers’ endurance.