F1 driver Valtteri Bottas reveals growing interest in pro cycling and hints at launching his own team in the near future.
Valtteri Bottas admits he is considering creating a professional cycling team.
Even before losing his seat at Sauber at the end of last year, the current Mercedes F1 reserve driver was a keen cycling enthusiast, logging hundreds of kilometers each week while training around the world.
The 35-year-old driver revealed he is now working with a professional coach.
“I’m cycling more now,” said Bottas, who hopes to return to the grid next year with Cadillac.
“This year, I want to see how much I can improve over 12 months by training more specifically and having more time available.”
“I still attend every Formula 1 weekend, but this year, I’ve been averaging 15 hours of cycling per week.”
The Finn revealed his current power-to-weight ratio is 4.8 watts per kilogram, compared to 6 watts or more for a professional cyclist.
As for the future, Bottas—whose net worth is estimated at around $30 million—doesn’t rule out launching his own professional cycling team.
“Never say never. For now, I’m a bit too busy, but in the future… Cycling is one of my biggest passions. We’ll see. I can’t deny it. It’s a sport I love to follow and practice.”