Valtteri Bottas is prepared to don the Mercedes uniform once again—not the racing suit he wore for five seasons, but as the third driver. Audi’s decision to choose Gabriel Bortoleto was made in mid-October, and Bottas was informed on November 4, the day after the Brazilian Grand Prix. By then, it was too late for him to pursue an alternative program, even outside of Formula 1. Bottas’ downfall was the two-month wait in hopes of retaining his seat, during which all other available seats were filled.
Valtteri Bottas arrived in Las Vegas with a new tattoo on his left leg reading *”What’s next?”*, and the answer to that question may come soon. “Nothing has been signed yet,” explained Toto Wolff, “but if he were to return to the family, we’d all be very happy. If you have the chance to have someone like Valtteri on your team, you’re very fortunate. I’d be thrilled. I think it’s just a matter of time.”
Valtteri Bottas is striving to remain connected to the Formula 1 world, and for now, the only viable option seems to be accepting a third-driver role. At the moment, Mercedes has Mick Schumacher in that position, but recent disappointments for Mick—such as Franco Colapinto being chosen at Williams, Gabriel Bortoleto at Audi, and Kimi Antonelli at Mercedes—might lead him to move on completely. Valtteri Bottas appears to be the perfect candidate for Mercedes’ plans, and for Valtteri, a year on the sidelines would provide the chance to assess whether a return as a full-time driver in 2026 is realistic or if he should explore other paths.
Valtteri Bottas is also considering other contexts, but at present, all major international championships have already finalized their plans for 2025. “It’s almost December,” he confirmed, “and all the top teams’ seats are already filled. At this point, it’s better to look for an opportunity to stay connected to Formula 1 for next season while starting to think long-term and broadly about the future. I need to clarify my ideas, but the picture is gradually becoming clearer.”
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