Silverstone has been a safe haven for Mercedes in recent year, however Valtteri Bottas isn't expecting that dominance to continue this weekend given how the 2021 F1 season has gone so far. Seven of the last eight British GP have been won by Mercedes, while the team has claimed the last nine poles. However Red Bull, who lead the Constructors' Championship, have been the team to beat so far this year, and while Mercedes are bringing some upgrades to Silverstone, Bottas isn't expecting the team to claim pole by a second like they did last season. "I feel like this year is for sure a bit different," Bottas told RacingNews365.com and other members of the media. "Red Bull have been quick everywhere no matter which track so far this year, so we're not expecting to come here and suddenly we're going to be on top. "Of course, we would like to think that hopefully we're in better form than in Austria. We have some new bits in the car, hopefully that will bring us closer to Red Bull. "I don't think we're going to be on pole by one second like last year, but I hope we can fight for the pole so let's see." As for the upgrades Mercedes are bringing to Silverstone this weekend, Bottas isn't sure how much faster the car will be, though we'll get some answers as soon as Friday. "I can't put a direct number," Bottas added. "It's nothing huge, it's nothing small but we'll see. Obviously, already tomorrow we'll find [out] how fast the car is on single lap."
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