Could Bottas return to Mercedes? 'We've talked with Toto'
F1 News
Valtteri Bottas is looking for a new team for the 2025 season, as the Finn's contract ends this season at Sauber, which will become Audi in 2026. Bottas was also briefly linked to Mercedes, but the German team's former driver now declined these rumours.
Pairing up Bottas with George Russell could have made sense for Toto Wolff and Mercedes. A once reliable driver for the German team, the Finn could have replaced Lewis Hamilton for 2025, giving Toto Wolff one more year to either try and bring in Max Verstappen from Red Bull, or to be sure to promote young talent Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
Talking to Mirror Sport, Bottas explained why he rules out a return to Mercedes. "I want something multi-year with a clear plan for the years ahead and work together for that time. I think that's what I need, a good challenge and a clear plan. If I just do one year, then you're back to square one again and looking at what's next."
He added: "I'm good friends with Toto so, of course, we've talked about everything."
Where do things stand with Bottas?
Bottas also talked about his future to GPblog and others over the weekend at Silverstone. "I think I'm in a good position. And yes, some people in the paddock still luckily know what I can do and what are my strengths are to be part of a team. It's not frustrating [we have to wait], it's actually exciting. It's part of the sport and we're actually still in July. I've been in a situation before that I've had to wait until September or October. So, I think we're still in a decent situation."
Bottas also added he is planning to get everything done before the summer break. "I think it's possible. That's the target." He also believes that him willing to sign a longer contract makes him have a better chance on the market. "I've got my priorities in order. I hope that puts me in a strong position," Bottas concluded on why he thinks he could be a good asset for a team.