No sooner had Mercedes confirmed that Valtteri Bottas will start Sunday's Abu Dhabi from the back of the grid, than the Finn took to social media to announce the end of his marriage.

Bottas retired from the Brazilian Grand Prix with an engine-related issue, and in the German team's subsequent video analysis of the race, Andrew Shovlin admitted that the unit might need to be replaced.

On investigation it became clear that the unit had been damaged and as a result the Finn will need a new one this weekend. He is likely to have to start from the back of the grid.

Meanwhile, taking to Twitter, Bottas revealed that his marriage has ended.

"Unfortunately I have to let you know that the marriage between myself and Emelia has come to an end," he wrote. "Our ways have split because of the challenges of my career and life situation bring and we think this is the best for both of us and our future lives, so we are separating as friends.

"I will be forever thankful for all the sacrifices she had to make for me, for her support during many years and for all the experiences that we have had together.

"I trust that you will respect both of us and our privacy regarding this matter. This will be all I have to say and comment regarding our divorce."

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READERS COMMENTS

1. Posted by Tardis40, 29/11/2019 18:49

"A difficult announcement to make but done with honesty and class. "

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2. Posted by F1 Yank, 29/11/2019 17:05

"I completely respect the drivers and the people in their lives that make the huge sacrifice in order to allow them to do what they do best. Relationships are not easy at times and I know people who state their day to day interactions with each other are what make it, however I know a few that say if we didn't travel for business as much we probably wouldn't be together. Either way, I wish the best to Valterri and Emilia for life is too short."

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3. Posted by Jet Jockey, 28/11/2019 12:00

"Well that is a very sad news to hear, wish him all the best."

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A sad day for Bottas

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