Valtteri Bottas is set to rejoin Mercedes as their reserve driver for the 2025 Formula 1 season, marking a homecoming for the 35-year-old Finn after a three-year stint with Sauber.
Bottas, who raced for Mercedes from 2017 to 2021, brings a wealth of experience, having secured 10 Grand Prix victories and 20 pole positions during his tenure with the Silver Arrows. He will serve as backup for George Russell and rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
“Returning to the Mercedes family feels like coming home,” Bottas said. “I’ve had incredible moments in my 12 years in F1, and I’m excited to use my experience to help the team fight for championships again.”
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff praised Bottas’ return, emphasizing his contributions to the team’s past successes. “Valtteri played a crucial role in our championship victories, both on track and with his technical insights. His return as reserve driver will be invaluable,” said Wolff.
Bottas joins Mercedes after parting ways with Audi-owned Sauber, where he described his move as “a mistake.” Sauber has opted for Nico Hulkenberg and F2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto as drivers for their transition to Audi’s official F1 entry in 2026.
As Mercedes aims to reclaim its dominance, Bottas’ return strengthens their pursuit of future championships while reuniting him with a team that played a pivotal role in his F1 career.
