Uncertain Future for Valtteri Bottas as Mercedes Considers Reserve Role

Toto Wolff, the head of the Mercedes Formula 1 team, has suggested that Finnish driver Valtteri Bottas could return to Mercedes as a reserve driver for the 2025 season. This potential move is amid rumors and following a significant shake-up in driver lineups impacting Bottas’ career prospects.

Bottas, who has driven for Mercedes from 2017 to 2021, was an integral part of the team’s success alongside Lewis Hamilton, securing ten grand prix victories and contributing to five consecutive Constructors’ Championships. However, his current situation in F1 is uncertain following Audi F1‘s decision to replace him for the 2025 season. Audi F1 plans to partner Gabriel Bortoleto with Nico Hulkenberg for next year’s lineup, leaving Bottas without a seat.

Speaking at the Mexican Grand Prix, Bottas indicated his openness to a role at Mercedes, stating he «would consider» returning as the team’s reserve driver. Wolff expressed a keen interest in re-signing Bottas, mentioning that negotiations are close to conclusion, though nothing has been finalized yet. «With the opportunity to have a driver like Valtteri back… with his ability, you can deem yourself super lucky,» Wolff told Viaplay.

Bottas is weighing his options after being sidelined by Audi F1, admitting he has «lots to give» to the sport and is exploring other avenues for continuing his racing career. He disclosed to media outlets, including PlanetF1.com, that he is assessing various «interesting options» for the future.

Despite the setback with Audi F1, Bottas emphasized his commitment to Formula 1, expressing a desire to avoid other motorsport categories like IndyCar or the World Endurance Championship until at least 2026 unless no opportunities arise in F1 for 2025 and beyond. «I love racing against the best drivers in the world, in the best cars,» Bottas reiterated, and is taking his next steps «day by day.»

Wolff and Bottas have maintained a close professional relationship since Wolff signed him to Mercedes as Nico Rosberg’s successor in 2017. Wolff’s management support for Bottas continues as Bottas deliberates his future in the sport.

The shift in Bottas’s career comes as Mercedes prepares for a new era, fielding one of the youngest driver lineups next year with Andrea Kimi Antonelli joining George Russell.