Valtteri Bottas hints at rejoining Mercedes in 2025, replacing Mick Schumacher as the team’s primary reserve driver.
Bottas admits it is “very likely” he will replace Mick Schumacher as Mercedes’ primary reserve driver in Formula 1 for 2025.
The Finn’s final race for Audi-owned Sauber ended on a disappointing note with a crash and a pointless season.
“It’s good that this chapter of my career is now over,” he said, adding that joining Sauber was “a mistake” (read here).
“I always speak my mind. Now we’ll see what the future holds.”
On site to witness what could be the 35-year-old’s last F1 Grand Prix, Bottas’s father, Rauno, was present.
“I’m not sure this will be his last race,” Rauno smiled.
“It’s a strange feeling right now, but it’s hard to say more at this point.”
Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff admitted after the Abu Dhabi race that a deal for Bottas to return to the team as a reserve driver “seems well on track.”
Rauno smiled but refrained from commenting, while Valtteri shared a bit more about what 2025 might hold.
“You’ll probably see me here again, and I hope to do as much testing as possible. Then, at some point, return to racing.”
“Mercedes is a very good option. We’ll see this week or next. It’s a very likely option.”
One thing no one can take away from Bottas is that, as Lewis Hamilton’s teammate, he finished runner-up in the championship twice—and third twice.
“Yes, I can be proud of that,” he said with a smile.
“Everyone can try to do better.”
“I’ve raced all my life and always aimed for Formula 1. A lot has been achieved here. It’s not the best way to end, of course.”
As for his immediate plans, Bottas revealed, “In Finland, you quickly jump into a sauna!”
- Discover More>F1 2024: Key Statistics from the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
- Follow us on >Facebook and >Twitter for F1 updates.
Bottas: Signing with Mercedes F1 for 2025 is ‘very likely’ Bottas: Signing with Mercedes F1 for 2025 is ‘very likely’
