Valtteri Bottas is poised for a comeback at Mercedes, stepping into a reserve driver role, as the deal nears its finalisation. Having raced for the iconic team from 2017 to 2021, Bottas made a move to Alfa Romeo, which later transitioned to Sauber. Yet, with his tenure at this team concluding this season, his sights are set on returning to familiar grounds.
Bottas’ Journey and Mercedes’ Strategic Move
Bottas, who brought home 10 victories while paired with Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes, was hopeful of retaining his position in the dynamic Formula 1 landscape. He spent this season with Sauber, facing a challenging year, not surpassing a 13th place finish. However, with Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto earmarked for 2025, and Audi eyeing an entry into F1, Bottas’ prospects dwindled.
Toto Wolff, the Mercedes team principal, enthuses about Bottas’ potential return. He admitted it’s not yet sealed with a signature, emphasising the mutual excitement. “If we were to have him back in the family, we all would be full of joy,” Wolff shared with Viaplay before the Las Vegas Grand Prix qualifying.
Advantages of Bottas’ Return
Wolff noted the benefits of having Bottas’ experience, particularly with the latest cars, which could be quite advantageous for Mercedes. “You can deem yourself super lucky to have such a pilot back,” Wolff stated, highlighting the strategic advantage Bottas’ modern racing experience offers.
As discussions progress, Wolff jokingly mentioned that paperwork could be a hurdle, “negotiations at the end, lawyers always want to make contracts fail!” he quipped, indicating a resolution is imminent.
Bottas Reflects on His Career and Future
Speaking candidly, Bottas, 35, who placed second twice in the drivers’ championship during his stint at Mercedes, expressed a yearning to remain an active driver. “The way my active F1 driving career ended for now, it wasn’t the best,” he remarked, acknowledging a sense of incompletion.
Encouragingly, Bottas remains optimistic about contributing to racing with top-tier drivers. “I feel like I still have lots to give for the sport, and I still love it,” Bottas proclaimed. Contemplating his future, he revealed ongoing negotiations and interest in his talent, suggesting, “there’s some interesting stuff on the table.”
Final Thoughts: A Future at Mercedes
As the Formula 1 season appears to wrap up for Bottas at Sauber, the anticipated return to Mercedes heralds a fresh chapter. Wolff’s positive outlook is shared among the Mercedes ranks, and Bottas’ experience could serve as a significant asset in their continued pursuit of excellence. While there are challenges, Bottas’ potential contribution to the Mercedes team is undeniable, lending both experience and insight to the 2024 F1 campaign as a reserve driver.
