Valtteri Bottas is in discussions with Mercedes about returning to the team as a reserve driver for the 2025 Formula 1 season, following confirmation that Mick Schumacher will depart the Silver Arrows after two years in the same role.
The 35-year-old Finn, who played a pivotal role in five Constructors’ Championship titles for Mercedes from 2017-2021, finds himself at a crossroads after being dropped by Sauber in favor of Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hulkenberg. With few options left on the 2025 grid, Bottas is keen to remain connected to F1, leaving the door open for a return to Brackley.
Discussions with Toto Wolff Underway
Speaking to media ahead of the 2024 Qatar GP, Bottas revealed ongoing talks with Mercedes, where he has previously enjoyed immense success, including 10 Grand Prix victories and 58 podiums.
“We’re talking, and it’s going well,” Bottas shared. “Still a bit of work to do, but we’re talking.
“It’s a different situation. It’s now 12 years ago that I was in that role [as a test driver], and back then, you’re just trying to get into Formula 1. Now, if I were to take that role, it would be difficult to watch.
“But at the same time, I feel like I have lots of things I can give to the team. Toto knows what he gets from me and how I could help.”
Keeping One Foot in F1
For Bottas, taking on the reserve driver role would serve as a stepping stone to keep his F1 ambitions alive. The 2011 GP3 Champion reaffirmed his commitment to Formula 1, emphasizing that he’s not ready to leave the sport entirely.
“The priority for me is still Formula 1,” Bottas said. “I feel like I’m not done yet with this sport.
“To be around, to be able to hopefully do some testing… it gives me a chance for 2026 because, in this sport, you just never know what happens.”
Future Options: Cadillac on the Horizon?
With General Motors Cadillac set to enter F1 in 2026, Bottas is eyeing a potential return to the grid with the new team. Staying active in the F1 paddock as a reserve driver could position him as an attractive candidate for Cadillac’s debut season.
While the Finn has entertained ideas of racing in IndyCar, World Endurance Championship, or even rally driving, his primary goal remains securing a competitive F1 seat.
Mercedes’ Perspective
Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has spoken highly of Bottas, hinting at the team’s willingness to welcome him back. Wolff previously described Bottas as a dependable and skilled asset, stating, “If you have the opportunity to have a driver like Valtteri back in the Mercedes family, you can deem yourself super lucky.”
Why Bottas?
Bottas’ extensive experience with Mercedes and familiarity with their operations make him an ideal reserve driver. His technical knowledge, racecraft, and proven ability to deliver under pressure would provide valuable support to the team as it navigates future challenges.
What’s Next?
While Bottas acknowledges that returning as a reserve driver would be a step back, he sees it as a strategic move to stay relevant in the F1 world. Whether as a reserve driver at Mercedes or a full-time driver for Cadillac in 2026, Bottas’ determination to extend his F1 career remains unwavering.
