Valtteri Bottas becomes reserve driver for Mercedes in 2025

The transfer announcements keep coming but are not alike. It’s now Valtteri Bottas’ turn to learn his future for the next season.

Valtteri Bottas raced for Mercedes for five seasons alongside Lewis Hamilton, from 2017 to 2021, winning the 10 victories of his career with the Silver Arrows, as well as his 20 pole positions in Formula 1. He then joined Sauber, then known as Alfa Romeo, for the 2022 season after Mercedes chose to promote George Russell in his place. With the Swiss team, the Finn experienced mixed fortunes, ranging from a solid 10th place in 2022 to a season without any points in 2024.

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— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) December 19, 2024

A reserve driver position to bounce back

When Sauber decided not to renew his contract for 2025, opting instead for a duo composed of Nico Hülkenberg and Brazilian rookie Gabriel Bortoleto, Valtteri Bottas began discussions with Mercedes for a reserve driver role, hoping to remain in contention for a return as a starting driver in 2026. This reserve role will involve his presence at most, if not all, Grand Prix events, supporting the main drivers George Russell and newcomer Kimi Antonelli.

Returning home, to the Mercedes family, as a third driver for 2025 is what’s in store for me, and I couldn’t be happier, Bottas said. I want to thank Toto [Wolff, Mercedes team principal], the team in Brackley, and everyone who represents the three-pointed star for welcoming me with open arms. Despite the challenges of recent years, I know I still have a lot to contribute to F1. Since I was five years old, in Nastola, Finland, my goal has always been to succeed in the pinnacle of motorsport.

« I’ve been fortunate to experience many incredible moments during my 12 years in F1 so far. Returning to the team where so many of these moments were achieved, I am eager to leverage all the knowledge I have gained to help the team perform and progress towards our goal of competing for world championships. »

Toto Wolff added: « Welcome home, Valtteri! It’s great to have you back. His impact and contribution during his previous five years as a full-time driver were immense. In addition to winning multiple Grand Prix races, he played a crucial role in five of our world championship titles. His technical feedback and input were essential in helping us achieve these successes and advance the team. Not only that, but he was also a fantastic colleague and team member. His dry sense of humor and warm personality made him a favorite with everyone, in Brackley and Brixworth. In his role as a reserve driver, all these qualities will be extremely important to help us compete for world championships and support George and Kimi on the track. »