After a challenging 2024 season with Sauber that saw Valtteri Bottas and teammate Guanyu Zhou fail to score a single point, Bottas is now poised for a remarkable return to Mercedes—but this time in a reserve driver capacity. The Finn, who won 10 races during his five-year tenure at Mercedes, is reportedly close to finalizing a deal with his former team after being ousted from Sauber’s driver lineup for 2025.
Toto Wolff Welcomes Bottas Back with Open Arms
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff didn’t hold back his admiration for Bottas, describing the potential reunion as a boon for the team. Speaking during the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Wolff highlighted Bottas’ value as a reserve driver, especially given his recent experience with modern F1 machinery.
Wolff: “If you have the opportunity of having a pilot like Valtteri back in the Mercedes family, with his ability and his most recent experience, you can deem yourself super lucky.”
While nothing has been officially signed, Wolff admitted that it’s “a matter of time” before a deal is sealed to bring Bottas back into the fold.
Sauber’s Overhaul Leaves Bottas and Zhou Without Seats
Sauber’s transformation into Audi ahead of the 2026 season has prompted a shake-up in their driver lineup for 2025. Nico Hülkenberg, returning from Haas, and rising Formula 2 star Gabriel Bortoleto are set to take the reins, leaving Bottas and Zhou out in the cold.
The Finn endured a miserable season with Sauber, finishing as low as 18th at the Las Vegas GP, as the team struggled with what has widely been considered the worst car on the grid.
Mercedes Reserve Role: A Lifeline for Bottas
This potential move to Mercedes mirrors the team’s strategy with Mick Schumacher, who joined as a reserve driver in 2024 after losing his Haas seat. Bottas’ experience, combined with his familiarity with the Mercedes operation, positions him as a valuable asset, particularly during a transitional phase for the team.
2025 will see George Russell paired with highly-touted rookie Kimi Antonelli as Lewis Hamilton departs for Ferrari. Bottas could play a crucial role in guiding the young Antonelli while also providing backup in the event of a driver absence.
A Fresh Chapter for Mercedes
Bottas’ return comes at an opportune time for Mercedes, as they look to solidify their team dynamics post-Hamilton. With Bottas’ proven race-winning pedigree and deep understanding of Mercedes’ operations, his presence would bring both experience and stability.
Wolff: “We would be full of joy to have Valtteri back. His input and calm approach could be invaluable for the team as we step into a new era.”
What’s Next for Bottas?
While Bottas may no longer hold a full-time seat on the grid, his return to Mercedes could offer him a chance to remain deeply involved in F1, potentially even paving the way for a return to racing under the right circumstances. With Mercedes embracing a future-focused driver lineup, Bottas’ wealth of knowledge will likely play a pivotal role in their 2025 campaign.
For now, Bottas looks set to once again don the silver overalls and rejoin the team where he achieved some of the biggest moments of his career.
