Valtteri Bottas is back with Mercedes—but this time, in a different capacity. After missing out on a full-time 2025 Formula 1 seat, the 10-time Grand Prix winner has reunited with his former team as their reserve driver. And while Bottas may not be lining up on the grid this season, his experience with Ferrari’s power unit from his Sauber stint could be an unexpected advantage for Mercedes.
Why Bottas’ Return Matters to Mercedes
While some might view Bottas’ return as merely a stopgap measure until he finds a 2026 race seat, George Russell believes there’s much more to it.
“His experience is going to be massive. Having someone with so much simulator and racing knowledge, and who fully knows the team is going to be great.” – George Russell
Bottas spent the last two seasons at Sauber (Alfa Romeo), driving a car powered by Ferrari’s hybrid power unit. Given that Ferrari is set to be one of Mercedes’ top rivals in 2025—especially with Lewis Hamilton joining the Scuderia—Russell believes Bottas’ insight could provide a tactical edge.
“Hearing about his last few years at Sauber, with the Ferrari engine, could be key too. You always have to keep an open mind as to what others are doing, and he has all of that under his belt.”
While Mercedes can’t legally extract exact technical details from Bottas about Ferrari’s power unit, his general experience with Ferrari’s engine characteristics, fuel efficiency, and performance trends could be valuable when competing against them.
From Tension to Teamwork: Russell & Bottas’ New Dynamic
Bottas and Russell weren’t always the best of friends. Their 2021 Imola crash—where Russell infamously slapped Bottas’ helmet in the gravel trap after their high-speed collision—was a low point in their relationship.
At the time, both drivers were fighting for a coveted Mercedes seat alongside Hamilton, a battle that Russell eventually won for 2022. The incident resulted in some memorable middle-finger gestures from Bottas and post-race controversy.
However, all of that seems to be in the past now. Russell acknowledges that their relationship has grown, particularly since Bottas’ exit from Mercedes:
“Obviously years ago we were perceived to not have a strong relationship, but we are both professionals. Our relationship has grown, we often travel together and see each other at hotels or in the gym.”
It appears the rivalry has transformed into mutual respect, with Bottas now serving as a valuable asset for Mercedes behind the scenes.
Toto Wolff on Bottas’ ‘Wild Side’—And That Bleached Ponytail
Bottas has enjoyed a newfound freedom since leaving Mercedes in 2021. Gone are the “wingman” days, and in came the bold, mullet-wearing, beer-drinking, gravel-riding Bottas who embraced life outside of the F1 pressure cooker.
However, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff may have to rein in some of Bottas’ new antics now that he’s back with the Silver Arrows.
That said, the now-iconic bleached ponytail? That’s staying.
Even Russell joked about it, saying:
“Maybe he could give me some of his at the back, and I can give him some of my hair from the side – I think we would be able to make something pretty extraordinary from the two!”
Bottas’ fun-loving, relaxed personality might just be a breath of fresh air in Mercedes’ ultra-serious environment. And with both Russell and Hamilton fiercely competing in 2025, Bottas’ role behind the scenes could prove invaluable for the team.
Can Bottas Use His Mercedes Role to Secure a 2026 Seat?
Bottas has made it clear: he’s not done racing yet.
He has openly admitted that his Sauber move was a mistake, as Audi’s transition strategy left him without a seat for 2025.
Now, being back at Mercedes gives Bottas a foot in the door for a potential return to the grid in 2026. With Audi, Mercedes, Red Bull, and other teams evaluating their lineups, Bottas’ presence in the paddock could keep him in the conversation for a full-time comeback.
And if Mercedes does struggle against Ferrari in 2025, Bottas’ knowledge of both power units could make him a highly valuable option for any team looking for experience and adaptability.
Final Verdict: A Smart Move for Both Sides
Bottas’ return to Mercedes is more than just a “reserve driver” gig—it’s a strategic partnership.
✅ For Mercedes: They get a veteran driver who knows the team inside and out, but now also brings insights from Ferrari—one of their biggest rivals.
✅ For Bottas: He stays in F1, keeps himself relevant for 2026, and aligns himself with a top team that could help facilitate his return to the grid.
With Mercedes in the middle of a transition—balancing Russell’s development and preparing for Hamilton’s Ferrari move—Bottas’ steady presence could prove to be an ace up their sleeve in 2025.