Mercedes Formula 1 team boss and CEO Toto Wolff has hinted at the possibility of Valtteri Bottas returning to a full-time race seat in the championship. Wolff expressed strong support for the Finnish driver, who previously raced for Mercedes between 2017 and 2021 alongside Lewis Hamilton. Following his three-year tenure at Alfa Romeo/Sauber, Bottas’s contract was not renewed, leading him to rejoin Mercedes as their reserve driver for the 2025 season. Wolff emphasized that while it was great to have Bottas back within the team, he firmly believed the 35-year-old deserves to be competing regularly on the grid.
Speaking in a Mercedes debrief video, Wolff highlighted Bottas’s reliability and speed, praising his ability to instantly perform at a competitive level if called upon. He remarked that should the team need a substitute due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, Bottas could step in without hesitation and deliver top-tier results. Wolff said this gave the team confidence, knowing their reserve driver was capable of performing at the highest standard. His comments reinforced the idea that Bottas is far more than a backup and remains race-ready.
Wolff also hinted that opportunities might arise soon for Bottas to secure a permanent seat, adding that fans should “watch this space.” This statement has fueled speculation about potential openings on the 2026 grid, particularly as Bottas’s name continues to be linked to various teams. Among these is the Cadillac Formula 1 project, which will enter the sport in 2026 but has yet to confirm its driver lineup.
Cadillac F1 team principal Graeme Lowdon confirmed ongoing talks with multiple drivers, including Bottas. Speaking on the High Performance podcast, Lowdon clarified that while many drivers are eager to join to “prove a point,” that is not the primary purpose of the team. Instead, Cadillac is focused on finding drivers motivated to give their best for the team as a whole, rather than seeking personal validation or narrative-driven comebacks.
Lowdon further revealed that the team has engaged in discussions with “every single person” whose name has been linked to a seat. This open approach underscores Cadillac’s intention to thoroughly evaluate all potential options before making a decision. With Bottas’s proven track record, experience, and current form as Mercedes’ reserve, he remains a strong candidate for a return to the F1 starting grid in the near future.
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