Valtteri Bottas hints at a possible Mercedes F1 comeback in 2026 as he begins simulator work for new Formula 1 regulations.
Bottas has hinted that he could remain with Mercedes F1 in 2026.
The 35-year-old Finn lost his seat at Sauber at the end of last year and returned to Mercedes as a full-time reserve driver for 2025.
Bottas, who won 10 Grands Prix as Lewis Hamilton’s teammate at Mercedes, had been considered one of the frontrunners to join the all-new Cadillac F1 team for 2026.
However, he now indicates that he is ready to head to the Mercedes F1 simulator in Brackley next week, specifically to prepare for the 2026 season, which will feature radically different engine and chassis regulations.
If Bottas is still genuinely in contention for a seat at Cadillac, it seems unlikely Mercedes would allow him a preview of the team’s 2026 plans, especially as the brand is expected to dominate the season with its power unit.
“I was supposed to do it two weeks ago,” Bottas said in Barcelona, “but the simulator wasn’t working.”
“I have a simulator day next week. It will probably be the first time I work on 2026 and understand the differences with 2025.”
Does this mean his plans with Cadillac for 2026 are falling through?
“I don’t know. It hasn’t really progressed, I guess I’m not one of their priorities. There is a lot to do for 2026 anyway, and Mercedes wants to use my experience. If I need to stay for 2026, no problem!”
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