Valtteri Bottas is on the verge of returning to Formula 1: according to RacingNews365 and Formula.hu, the Finnish driver has signed with Cadillac.
Valtteri Bottas-Cadillac, is the deal done?
Cadillac is starting to make moves in the F1 driver market. The American team, which has not yet confirmed a race seat for the 2026 season, has used the summer break to advance negotiations with drivers looking for a spot on the grid. According to reports from RacingNews365 and Formula.hu, a decisive step has been taken with Valtteri Bottas, who has reportedly already signed his contract. The official announcement is expected next week when Formula 1 returns from the summer break and prepares for the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort.
Dutch and Hungarian media suggest that Valtteri Bottas could join Cadillac ahead of schedule. The new 2026 entrant plans to run test sessions with older-generation cars to start preparing for its debut, which will ultimately take place with entirely new machinery.
In recent months, the 1989-born Finnish driver had joked on social media about the possibility of joining Cadillac in 2026. This move would mark his return to the F1 paddock after Kick Sauber chose not to renew his seat, opting instead for Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto.
Valtteri Bottas’ potential signing might raise eyebrows for some, but Cadillac primarily needs experience. With Formula 1 set for a revolutionary 2026 season—featuring completely new engines, chassis, and tires—and a team composed largely of newcomers to the paddock, the squad requires established figures to provide guidance, mentality, and leadership. Should Bottas join, it could form a veteran pairing alongside current Mercedes reserve driver Sergio Perez, who is also in talks to return to Formula 1, either with Cadillac or Alpine, and is reportedly in advanced negotiations with Graeme Lowdon’s team.
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