Valtteri Bottas Shuts Down Mercedes F1 Return Rumors, Seeks Multi-Year Security with Next Team

Valtteri Bottas dismisses the possibility of a 2025 comeback with Mercedes F1: “Taking a spot for just a year…”

Valtteri Bottas responds to rumors suggesting he might return to Mercedes.

Valtteri Bottas has definitively dismissed the idea of making a temporary comeback to Mercedes for a single season, emphasizing his desire for “stability” in his future Formula 1 engagement.

Bottas's current contract is set to expire at the end of the year, and his future Formula 1 team remains unconfirmed.

The driver who has clinched victory in 10 Formula 1 races is a key figure in the racing driver marketplace, yet his next move hinges significantly on what Carlos Sainz decides to do.

Bottas is reportedly being considered by Alpine and Williams for the upcoming season, with his current squad, Sauber, also seen as a potential choice.

Sainz is rumored to be connected with all three squads, yet he continues to lead in their hierarchy.

In the end, what lies ahead for Bottas hinges on Sainz's forthcoming decision, which is expected to be made in the next few weeks or months.

Mercedes, Bottas' previous team, remains uncertain about who will team up with George Russell, as they await Max Verstappen's decision.

Andrea Kimi Antonelli continues to be the top choice, despite discussions on whether Mercedes required a temporary solution for a year, which could have opened the door for Bottas to make a comeback.

In a conversation with Mirror Sport, Bottas dismissed the idea of going back to Brackley, emphasizing his focus on securing a long-term contract in F1.

"I don't believe taking on a role for just a year aligns with what I'm looking for or require right now," he remarked. "For the upcoming year, my preference is for a longer-term commitment with a well-defined strategy for the future, aiming to collaborate over that period."

"I believe what I really need is a strong challenge coupled with a definitive strategy. Simply committing to a single year would mean starting from the beginning once it ends, pondering over the subsequent steps. Given my close friendship with Toto, it's natural that we've discussed all matters extensively."

Over the past three years, Bottas has been with Sauber, guiding the team to their highest F1 constructors' championship placement in ten years during his initial season.

Subsequently, Sauber has lagged in the competition for technological advancements, frequently finding it challenging to earn points.

At present, Bottas finds himself at the end of the drivers' standings, not having earned any points in 12 contests.

Bottas is eager to finalize plans for the future in the near term.

"He mentioned that having security would be appreciated. However, he was always aware from the moment he finalized all agreements that in three years, he would be facing the same situation.

"The prospect of change also brings a sense of excitement. Personally, I'm at peace with the current circumstances – they've been quite intriguing – but I'm eager to resolve it quickly. Once that's done, I'll feel even more content."

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