Valtteri Bottas intends to use his new position at Mercedes F1 as a launching pad to return to the Formula 1 starting grid.
The team confirmed yesterday that its former driver and grand prix winner, who was not retained by Audi-owned Sauber for 2025, will serve as a full-time reserve driver next season.
“Despite the challenges of recent years, I know I still have a lot to contribute to F1,” said the 35-year-old Finn, currently on vacation in Australia.
A clear opportunity for its return to racing in 2026 is emerging with Cadillac.
“I think there will be opportunities. 2026 is my target. Team plans are still open and an eleventh team is coming, which is really exciting.”
He even confides that there have already been preliminary discussions, because he already knows the boss of the Cadillac team, the former boss of Marussia, Graeme Lowdon.
"I’ve known Graeme for a long time," this Bottas.
“I guess they need experience because they have a lot of work to do. Cadillac would be an option for me.”
“At this stage of my career, I still have a lot to bring to the sport. Building a team from scratch would be really interesting. It’s motivating and rewarding if you achieve your goals by working together.”
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