The team to beat:

Lewis Hamilton of Britain (left) and Finn Valtteri Bottas posing with the Mercedes car after yesterday’s launch at the Silverstone circuit in England yesterday.

KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has backed new signing Valtteri Bottas to make an immediate impact with the reigning Formula One champions.

The 27-year-old Finnish driver has a big shoe to fill after he was recruited to replace German Nico Rosberg, who retired five days after claiming drivers’ crown last season.

“Bottas was drafted into the team late in January, but with his talent and experience it wouldn’t take too long for him to set in,” said Wolff after launching their new car at the Silverstone circuit in Britain yesterday.

“We do have high expectations on him and I have no doubt he’ll deliver.”

Bottas joined Mercedes after spending four seasons at Williams. He has yet to win but managed to secure nine podium finishes in 78 starts.

He enjoyed his finest season in 2014, finishing fourth overall. He was eighth last season.

Mercedes won 19 of 21 legs last season on their way to their third consecutive drivers’ and constructors’ titles.

This year’s championship begins with the Australian Grand Prix from March 24-26.