Mercedes has strategically rehired Valtteri Bottas as a safeguard or a “Plan B” in case Kimi Antonelli’s crash frequency proves to be a liability, according to Christian Danner. Bottas, who previously raced for Mercedes from 2017 to 2021, is set to act as the official reserve driver for the F1 2025 season, providing support to Antonelli and George Russell.
During his initial tenure with Mercedes, Bottas proved an exceptional team player, securing four top-three results and contributing to Mercedes’ eight consecutive Constructors’ titles. Despite this, Bottas faced the prospect of an abrupt end to his Formula 1 career following his replacement by Sauber with rookie driver Gabriel Bortoleto. Now, the 35-year-old Finn returns to Mercedes, albeit in a supporting capacity.
Bottas’ role extends beyond just being a substitute driver for the 2025 Mercedes team, which includes Russell and rookie driver Antonelli. He is also tasked with mentoring the 18-year-old Italian racer. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff confirmed this, stating, “Part of Valtteri’s job will be to look after Kimi. To be there, to coach him, to constantly keep an eye on what is happening on the track.”
However, Bottas may also serve as a fallback option if Antonelli’s performance proves unsatisfactory. There have been murmurs about Antonelli’s crash history with Mercedes’ F1 cars prior to his debut season, which include more incidents than just his collision during FP1 at Monza.
Danner, a former F1 driver, discussed Antonelli’s position at Mercedes on Motorsport-Magazin’s YouTube channel, expressing some skepticism. He questioned Antonelli’s potential and the impact of his frequent crashes despite acknowledging his speed and talent. Danner suggested Bottas’ reappointment was a thoughtful move by Mercedes, providing a “Plan B” if Antonelli’s progression takes longer than expected.
The implications of Bottas’ return to Mercedes have previously been speculated upon by other F1 veterans. Juan Pablo Montoya, a former Williams and McLaren driver, referred to Bottas as a “safety net” for Mercedes in an interview with CasasDeApuestas.bet. Montoya highlighted the pressure Antonelli is under as a member of one of the top teams and being touted as the next Max Verstappen. If Antonelli fails to deliver, Montoya suggested, Bottas would be there to ensure Mercedes’ continued competitiveness.
