Valtteri Bottas remains hopeful of an F1 comeback, confident Mercedes won’t block his return if a racing opportunity arises.
Valtteri Bottas doubts Mercedes F1 would prevent a permanent return to Formula 1 if an opportunity arises.
Having lost his Sauber seat to reigning Formula 2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto, Bottas has been forced to step aside. The Finn has rejoined Mercedes, the team with which he claimed 10 victories between 2017 and 2021, in a reserve role but remains determined to secure a return to the grid in 2026.
“I think we both know, the team and I, that there has to be some sort of… we need to be flexible.”
“Of course, I’m fully committed to them this year, giving everything I have for the team and trying to help as much as I can.”
“But if an opportunity to race comes up during the year, I doubt the team will hesitate and will let me go.”
“Let’s see how 2025 unfolds. Let’s start with the first races, get the season going, and then we’ll see what the year brings and what 2026 has in store.”
Bottas revealed late last year that he had preliminary talks with Cadillac, the General Motors-backed team that has a provisional agreement to enter F1 in 2026.
However, the Finn admitted there has been no progress on that front, as the American brand remains focused on structuring its team ahead of its impending entry.
“I think they are still very busy setting up the team, organizing the board, and all those kinds of things. So no, nothing new for now, it’s a bit too early for that. But we’ll see.”
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Bottas Eyes F1 Return as Mercedes Keeps Doors Open Bottas Eyes F1 Return as Mercedes Keeps Doors Open
