Mika Hakkinen, nicknamed the Flying Finn, is one of Formula 1’s greatest drivers. F1 fans will forever remember his battles with the seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher. The two-time world champion has praised his fellow countryman Valtteri Bottas after a stunning qualifying session in Miami.

Bottas is having a tremendous season. After his move from Mercedes to Alfa Romeo, the Finn was expected to settle for a mid-table battle. However, his consistent performances have been impressive, to say the least. And recognition from one of Finland’s greatest drivers will only boost his confidence further.

Mika Hakkinen’s high praise for Valtteri Bottas

One does not get Mika Hakkinen’s approval every day. However, Valtteri Bottas has earned it. After finishing P5 in the qualifying during the inaugural Miami Grand Prix, Formula 1’s official Twitter handle heaped praise on Bottas and called him the “Flying Finn”. And the original Flying Finn accepted it as well.

“Welcome to the Flying Finn Club @ValtteriBottas,” were the words of the legendary driver himself. It is a great honor for Bottas and one he will cherish forever, without a doubt. Finland has produced some enticing talents in the past and present. So, it’s fair to say the country has made a significant impact on the sport.

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On Saturday, the new Flying Finn outperformed Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes as he once again finished ahead of his former teammate. As a result, the P5 result was Alfa Romeo’s best qualifying result in a long time. He will hope to keep his former team behind and secure valuable points for Alfa Romeo.

Valtteri hoping to finish on the podium

Although Bottas had a solid result on Saturday, the Finn did not encounter the same during Friday’s practice sessions. In FP1, he crashed into the barriers which ended his session early. However, after a stunning qualifying performance, the Finn is more than satisfied.

Starting from P5 behind both the Ferraris and Red Bulls, he does not rule out a podium finish. The track is new for all the drivers, so he will hope to capitalize if there are any errors made by the top 4 drivers on the grid.

“It’s Formula 1,everything is possible, and we are not far off. I think realistically fighting with the Red Bull, Ferrari with the pace they have is tricky, but anything can happen,” he said.

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With Miami hosting its first race ever, where will the Flying Finn finish? Leave your predictions in the comments.