Sauber driver Valtteri Bottas is eyeing his future options in Formula 1, but he isn’t banking on Red Bull to provide an unexpected opportunity amid the uncertainties around Sergio Perez’s performance. With two grands prix left in 2024, Red Bull faces a 53-point gap to McLaren, and Perez’s struggles are set to cost the team the constructors’ title. He has managed to score only 49 points over the last 16 rounds, starkly contrasting with Max Verstappen’s 267-point haul.
Perez’s future with Red Bull will be evaluated by the team’s shareholders after the season concludes, as Red Bull explores other potential drivers. However, current Red Bull junior drivers Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson have yet to make solid claims with standout performances. Interest in Franco Colapinto has also dwindled following his three significant crashes over recent grands prix.
Meanwhile, Bottas faces an uncertain future after Sauber signed Nico Hulkenberg and F2 leader Gabriel Bortoleto for the 2025 season, leaving him likely without a seat. Despite outperforming his teammate Zhou Guanyu this season, Bottas doesn’t foresee Red Bull offering him a spot.
Bottas’ Future Prospects
“I feel there’s some people like Red Bull who don’t really like me, so it’s a reason [not to wait for them],” Bottas remarked. He expressed doubt about a Red Bull opportunity, noting a sense of lack of interest from the outfit.
Throughout his career, Bottas has been regarded as a reliable driver. He notably contributed to Mercedes’ constructors’ championship successes during his five-season stint with the team, including the high-pressure 2021 title fight against Red Bull.
Return to Mercedes
Reports indicate Bottas is set to return to Mercedes, albeit as a reserve driver. “We’ve been talking for quite a long time,” Bottas confirmed after the Las Vegas Grand Prix, referencing conversations with Mercedes boss Toto Wolff. “I’m sure we will catch up again either tomorrow or Monday.“
Bottas welcomed the prospect of rejoining the Mercedes family, citing various positives such as the brand’s stature and future opportunities. “So it’s a really solid option for me, and actually I’m really thankful that they kind of are willing to take me in the role,” he remarked.
Planning Ahead
At 35, Bottas isn’t ready to retire and is considering his options for 2026 if he finds himself on the sidelines next year. When asked about interest in the Cadillac project—approved by F1 in principle—Bottas was open to the possibility: “Yes, I might,” he replied succinctly.
The upcoming decisions for Bottas could shape the latter part of his racing career, as he navigates his potential roles within or outside of F1.
