The Mercedes-Ferrari rivalry is about to get even more interesting.
With Lewis Hamilton heading to Ferrari in 2025 and Mercedes searching for a way to reclaim its dominance, George Russell believes that Valtteri Bottas could be a secret weapon for the Silver Arrows.
Bottas, who raced with Ferrari power for three years at Sauber, is returning to Mercedes as a reserve driver—and his knowledge of Ferrari’s engine could be invaluable.
Russell: Bottas’ Ferrari Experience Could Give Mercedes an Edge
For Russell, Bottas’ return isn’t just about having a seasoned veteran in the garage—it’s about tapping into his insights on Ferrari’s recent power unit advancements.
“Hearing about his last few years at Sauber, with the Ferrari engine, could be key too,” Russell admitted.
“You always have to keep an open mind as to what others are doing, and he has all of that under his belt.”
With Mercedes struggling to match Ferrari’s recent gains in engine power, Bottas’ first-hand experience with Ferrari’s hybrid system could help Mercedes close the gap and refine their own powertrain strategy.
Bottas’ Role: More Than Just a Reserve Driver
Bottas’ return to Mercedes comes at a critical time.
- Hamilton is gone, and Mercedes is transitioning to a new Russell-Antonelli era.
- Andrea Kimi Antonelli, an 18-year-old rookie, is stepping into one of the most high-pressure seats in F1.
- Toto Wolff has positioned Bottas as a mentor to Antonelli, helping the young star adjust to life at the front of the grid.
“His experience is going to be massive,” Russell said.
“Having someone with so much simulator and racing knowledge, and who fully knows the team, is going to be great.”
Bottas knows how Mercedes operates, having played a crucial role in five consecutive Constructors’ Championships from 2017 to 2021. He may not be racing full-time, but his influence in the garage, simulator, and strategy discussions will be significant.
Russell & Bottas: From Rivals to Teammates Again
When Russell replaced Bottas at Mercedes in 2022, the two weren’t exactly best friends.
Their 2021 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix crash made headlines, and many saw their dynamic as icy at best. But Russell now says their relationship has grown past the rivalry.
“Obviously years ago we were perceived to not have a strong relationship, but we are both professionals and our relationship has grown,” he said.
“We often travel together and see each other at hotels or in the gym.”
Now, with Bottas back in Mercedes’ camp, Russell sees the Finn as a major asset in helping the team fight back against Red Bull, McLaren, and Ferrari.
Final Thoughts: Can Bottas Help Mercedes Reclaim Its Throne?
🔥 Mercedes needs every advantage it can get in the post-Hamilton era.
🔥 Bottas brings invaluable Ferrari engine knowledge that could shape Mercedes’ 2025 strategy.
🔥 His mentorship will help Antonelli, and his experience will support Russell as he leads the team forward.
🚀 Can Bottas’ return help Mercedes dethrone Ferrari and Red Bull?
🚀 Will Russell use this inside knowledge to challenge Leclerc & Hamilton?
🚀 Or is Mercedes still playing catch-up as F1’s power dynamic shifts?
One thing’s for sure—the 2025 season is going to be a war.