Valtteri Bottas admits he is “very likely” that he replaces Mick Schumacher as Mercedes’ main reserve driver in Formula 1 in 2025.
The Finn’s final race for Audi-owned Sauber ended sadly with a crash – and a zero points tally for the season.
"It’s good that this part of my career is over now," he said today, now the fact that signing for Sauber was “a mistake” (read here).
“I always say what I think. Now we will see what the future brings.”
On hand to watch what could be the 35-year-old’s final F1 Grand Prix was his father Rauno.
"I’m not sure this is his last race," smiled Bottas’ father.
“It’s a strange feeling at the moment, but it’s hard to say more at the moment.”
Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff admitted after the Abu Dhabi race that a deal for Bottas to return to the team as a reserve driver “seems on track to be signed”.
Rauno smiled but did not want to comment, while Valtteri said a little more about what awaits him for 2025.
“I’ll probably still see you here on site and hopefully I can do as many tests as possible. And then at some point come back racing.”
“Mercedes, it’s a very good option. We’ll see this week or next. It’s a very likely option.”
What no one can take away from Bottas is that as Lewis Hamilton’s teammate, he finished second in the championship twice – and third twice.
"Yes, I can be proud of it," he said, smiling.
“Everyone can try to do better.”
“I’ve been racing all my life and I’ve always aimed for Formula 1. And a lot has been achieved here. It’s not the best way to end, of course.”
As for his immediate plans, Bottas revealed: “In Finland, we jump into a sauna quite quickly!”
