Valtteri Bottas, back with Mercedes as a third driver after leaving Alfa Romeo/Sauber, has shared his thoughts on the struggles faced by the Silver Arrows since his departure. Once a dominant force in Formula 1, Mercedes has seen a dramatic shift in fortunes since Bottas left at the end of 2021. The Finn, who contributed significantly to the team’s eight consecutive Constructors’ Championships, admits the downturn was unexpected.
Surprised by Mercedes’ Decline
Bottas expressed surprise at the challenges Mercedes has faced with the ground-effect regulations introduced in 2022.
“I didn’t quite expect to see the team in this position,” Bottas shared. “It’s been a strange time for them. They’ve gone from dominating to having to fight back to find their feet under these new rules.”
Mercedes finished fourth in the Constructors’ Championship in 2024, their worst result since 2012. Despite flashes of brilliance, including three wins in four races mid-season, the team struggled with inconsistency and a car that remained track-dependent.
“Now I feel like there’s hints that they’re kind of coming back,” Bottas added. “They’ve had some great performances, but it’s still very track-dependent. I know how hungry Toto [Wolff] is to get back to winning, and I think eventually they’ll get there.”
Bottas’ Future in Formula 1
Although Bottas is now a reserve driver, he remains committed to returning to a full-time F1 seat. His name has been linked with several teams, including Cadillac Racing, which plans to join the grid in 2026. His renewed connection with Mercedes also opens possibilities with Mercedes-powered teams such as McLaren, Williams, and Alpine, especially with the regulation reset on the horizon.
“There’s many Mercedes-powered cars on the grid, which can suddenly bring opportunities,” Bottas noted. “And in this sport, you just never know what happens. With 2026 and the changes coming, I’m prepared to stay in the game and try to find a way to come back.”
Testing and Staying Sharp
Bottas hinted that his role with Mercedes might include track time to ensure he remains sharp and competitive. He sees this as essential if he’s to return to a full-time seat.
“If I were to stay within Formula 1, I would want to make sure that option includes some driving, whether it’s testing or similar opportunities,” he said.
A Renewed Partnership with Mercedes
Bottas’ return to Mercedes comes with the backing of Toto Wolff, with whom he maintains a strong relationship. The partnership could serve as a springboard for Bottas to explore future opportunities in F1.
“There’s been some contacts, and I’m on good terms with Toto,” Bottas said. “I know there’s potential to build something for the future.”
A Familiar yet Uncertain Path
While Mercedes aims to recover its dominant position, Bottas finds himself in a unique position to contribute to the team’s progress while keeping his F1 aspirations alive. Whether it’s a future with Cadillac or a return with a Mercedes-powered team, Bottas’ journey in F1 appears far from over.
For now, the 34-year-old is back where he saw his greatest successes, playing a key role behind the scenes and keeping his eyes on the horizon for a full-time return to the grid.
