Could a former ally come to Mercedes as reinforcement for the 2025 season of the Formula 1 world championship?
While Valtteri Bottas sees his future at Sauber (future Audi) compromised for the 2025 F1 season, persistent rumors suggest a return to the Mercedes F1 universe. Lewis Hamilton's former teammate could well find a place of choice in the German team, but in a different form than the regular driver.
Valtteri Bottas, with his ten Grand Prix victories with Mercedes between 2017 and 2021, could indeed occupy a dual role next year. On the one hand, he would be tipped to become a reserve driver, bringing his experience of modern cars.
Furthermore, a position as advisor to Toto Wolff, director of the team, is also mentioned. A prospect that seems to excite the Mercedes team.
Toto Wolff himself confirmed the ongoing discussions at the Las Vegas Grand Prix: “Nothing is signed, nothing is done, but if we were to get him back to the family we would all be very happy.”
Valuable experience for Mercedes
Bottas' contribution, according to Wolff, would be invaluable. His expertise in current cars and his past involvement in the development of Mercedes F1 make him a strategic asset.
The team manager expressed optimism about an imminent deal: “If you have the opportunity to have a driver like Valtteri back, with his abilities and experience, you can consider yourself extremely lucky.”
The negotiations seem to be progressing at a good pace, even if Wolff likes to point out the intervention of lawyers who could delay the formalization: “In the end, lawyers always want to defeat contracts! Just kidding, they're great lawyers, and it's a matter of time.”
Bottas in endurance? Another interesting avenue
At the same time, other rumors are circulating concerning Bottas' possible involvement in the World Endurance Championship (WEC). With the return of Mercedes-AMG to the LMGT3 category, in collaboration with the Iron Lynx team, the Finn could also take on this challenge outside of F1.
While awaiting an official announcement, Bottas' return to the “Mercedes family” promises to be a great opportunity for the German team and for the driver, determined to remain at the top of motorsport.
