In a stunning turn of events, Valtteri Bottas is set to make a surprise return to the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One team in 2025. After spending three challenging seasons with Sauber, the Finnish driver will take on the role of reserve driver, supporting the Silver Arrows’ new lineup of George Russell and rising star Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
A Homecoming for Bottas
Bottas’ move back to Mercedes marks a significant milestone in his Formula 1 career. The 33-year-old spent five successful years with the team from 2017 to 2021, playing a crucial role in securing five consecutive Constructors’ Championships alongside Lewis Hamilton.
During his tenure at Mercedes, Bottas achieved:
- 10 Grand Prix victories
- 58 podium finishes
- 20 pole positions
- 5 Constructors’ titles
However, following Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari for 2025, Mercedes opted for a fresh start with Russell and Antonelli. This left Bottas seeking new opportunities, ultimately leading him to Sauber.
Struggles at Sauber
Bottas’ time at Sauber proved to be a challenging chapter in his F1 journey. Despite his best efforts, the team struggled to provide a competitive package, leaving the Finn languishing in the midfield. Over his three seasons with the Swiss outfit, Bottas managed just two podium finishes and a handful of points-scoring results.
As Sauber began to shift its focus towards its future partnership with Audi, set to commence in 2026, Bottas found himself on the fringes of the driver market. With limited options available for a full-time race seat, a return to Mercedes in a supporting role emerged as an attractive proposition.
A New Role at Mercedes
As a reserve driver, Bottas will be tasked with providing crucial support to Mercedes’ race drivers, Russell and Antonelli. His wealth of experience and technical expertise will be invaluable in helping the team to develop and refine their car throughout the season.
I’m happy to finally answer the question I’ve posed over the past month. Returning home to the Mercedes family as third driver for 2025 is what’s next, and I couldn’t be more pleased.
– Valtteri Bottas
Bottas’ role will extend beyond the racetrack, as he is set to play a key part in Mercedes’ simulator and testing programs. His input and feedback will be crucial in helping the team to unlock the full potential of their 2025 challenger.
A Path to Redemption?
While a reserve driver role may seem like a step back for a driver of Bottas’ caliber, it could potentially open doors for a full-time return to the grid in the future. With several teams yet to confirm their 2026 lineups, a strong showing in his supporting role at Mercedes could put the Finn back in contention for a race seat.
Moreover, Bottas’ experience and proven ability to work alongside a championship-winning teammate could make him an attractive prospect for teams seeking a reliable and consistent performer.
A New Chapter Begins
As Valtteri Bottas embarks on this new chapter in his Formula 1 career, all eyes will be on his performance in the Mercedes garage. With the team facing fierce competition from the likes of Ferrari, Red Bull, and a resurgent McLaren, Bottas’ contributions could prove pivotal in their pursuit of championship glory.
For Bottas, this homecoming represents an opportunity to remind the F1 world of his talent and value. By excelling in his role as a reserve driver, he could potentially pave the way for a triumphant return to the grid in the years to come, writing a new chapter in his already impressive Formula 1 legacy.
