Bottas set to return to Mercedes as reserve driver in 2024 as Finnish driver eyes familiar role in F1 but might harm the team in the event of an emergency situation – Valtteri Bottas, one of the most experienced and resilient drivers in Formula One, has hinted at a possible return to Mercedes in 2025 as their main reserve driver.

This potential reunion with a team that once provided the stage for some of his finest performances underlines Bottas’ enduring value to the sport. While his full-time racing days may be behind him, the Finn is keen to remain an integral part of the Formula One ecosystem, lending his expertise to a team he knows intimately.

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The end of the Sauber chapter

Bottas ended his tumultuous stint with Audi-owned Sauber at the end of the 2024 Formula One season. His final race with the team was emblematic of the challenges he faced throughout the year, ending in a crash and leaving him with zero points for the season.

Despite the difficulties, Bottas was reflective rather than disheartened when he spoke to *Viaplay* after the race. “It’s good that this part of my career is over,” he admitted. “We’ll see what the future brings.”

The end of Bottas’ time with Sauber signals a wider transition in his career. Known for his professionalism and tenacity, Bottas is keen to move on from what many see as a disappointing chapter. Watching from the sidelines at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was Bottas’ father, Rauno, who offered a hopeful perspective.

“I wouldn’t be so sure that this is his last race,” he told reporters, adding an air of mystery to what might lie ahead.

The sentiment reflects the optimism surrounding Bottas’ career as he prepares for the next phase, most likely with Mercedes. For a driver who has spent more than a decade in F1, the opportunity to return to a familiar team offers a chance to refocus and make a meaningful contribution.

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A familiar role at Mercedes

During his first stint with Mercedes, Bottas was Lewis Hamilton’s teammate from 2017 to 2021. During those five seasons, he became a crucial part of the team’s dominance, securing 10 race wins and playing a major role in their Constructors’ Championship victories. Bottas finished second in the Drivers’ Championship twice (2019 and 2020) and third twice (2017 and 2021), cementing his reputation as a reliable and quick driver.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff confirmed in Abu Dhabi that talks about Bottas’ return as a reserve driver are progressing well.

“It’s looking good,” said Wolff, suggesting that the team value Bottas’ experience and familiarity with their operations.

For Bottas, the prospect of returning to Mercedes as a reserve driver is a natural one.

“I’ll probably still see you here and hopefully I’ll be able to test as much as possible,” he said. “And then come back to racing at some point. It’s a really good option. We’ll see next week. It’s a very likely option.”

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The legacy of a consistent performer

Even as Bottas prepares to take on a supporting role, his legacy as a top Formula One driver is secure. His contributions to Mercedes’ success during his tenure were significant, often overshadowed by the extraordinary achievements of then-team-mate Lewis Hamilton.

Despite this, Bottas was a consistent performer, finishing as Hamilton’s closest challenger in several seasons.

Reflecting on his career, Bottas said: “I’ve been racing all my life and my goal has always been Formula One. A lot has been achieved here. Obviously, this is not the best way to end.”

With a smile, he added: “Everyone else can try to do better.”

These comments underline Bottas’ pride in his achievements, as well as his recognition of the challenges he has faced. His time with Mercedes remains a highlight, and the possibility of reuniting with the team gives him the opportunity to contribute to their continued success.

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Mercedes’ driver line-up for 2025

Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Mercedes have confirmed an exciting driver line-up with George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli. Russell, already an established name, will lead the team as he looks to capitalise on his growing experience and talent. Meanwhile, Antonelli, a promising young driver, steps into the spotlight as a replacement for the departing Lewis Hamilton, who will join Scuderia Ferrari in 2025.

The addition of Bottas as a reserve driver would provide Mercedes with a valuable safety net. His familiarity with the team and experience in high-pressure situations make him an ideal choice to support Russell and Antonelli, especially as the latter adjusts to the demands of Formula One.

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Lingering penalties: Bottas return might harm Mercedes

One complication with Bottas’ return is a lingering penalty from the final race of the 2024 season. After a collision with Kevin Magnussen, Bottas was handed a five-place grid penalty for the next Grand Prix he contests, as well as three penalty points on his super licence. This penalty would be carried over if he is required to replace a regular driver in 2025.

While such penalties are uncommon for reserve drivers, the situation underlines the unpredictable nature of Formula One.

If Bottas is required to replace Russell or Antonelli, Mercedes could face a double whammy: the loss of a regular driver and the disadvantage of a grid penalty.

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Immediate plans and personal goals

As he transitions into a new role, Bottas seems ready to embrace a less demanding schedule.

“In Finland, you jump into the sauna pretty quickly,” he joked when asked about his immediate plans after the season. His long-term ambitions, however, remain tied to F1. Bottas has expressed his desire to maximise his involvement through testing opportunities and to maintain his readiness for a possible full-time return to the sport.

This pragmatic approach reflects Bottas’ understanding of the dynamics of the sport. While his immediate focus may shift to supporting the team and developing the car, the possibility of returning to the grid remains firmly in his sights.

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A reinvented career

Valtteri Bottas’ likely return to Mercedes as a reserve driver in 2025 represents both a continuation of his Formula One journey and an opportunity to redefine his role within the sport. For Mercedes, the availability of a seasoned professional like Bottas provides stability and expertise as they navigate a new era with Russell and Antonelli.

Bottas’ story is one of resilience, adaptability and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His time as a full-time driver may be coming to an end, but his contributions to Formula One are far from over. As he prepares for the next chapter, Bottas remains a valuable asset to the sport and a driver whose presence will be felt both on and off the track.

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