It was recently revealed that Mercedes reserve driver Valtteri Bottas has secured a seat with the new Cadillac team. The official announcement from the Americans, who are making their Formula 1 debut in 2026, is still pending. The Finn has a long history with Mercedes; after five seasons as a regular driver, he rejoined the Silberpfeile in a reserve role this year. However, Bottas is free to make the switch to Cadillac, as revealed by team boss Toto Wolff.
“Valtteri (Bottas) has been part of the Mercedes family for a long time,” said Toto Wolff in a social media video. “He is a driver who we know can step in immediately and be fast if someone in our line-up unexpectedly drops out. That’s a great luxury; a test and reserve driver who is as fast as possible. At the same time, Bottas really deserves a regular seat,” Wolff continued. “Hopefully a door will open for him soon.”
Cadillac is Calling
In 2022, Bottas had to give up his Mercedes seat; Toto Wolff contracted Williams talent George Russell. He then opted for a three-year collaboration with Sauber, where he competed alongside Guanyu Zhou. However, his contract was not renewed for the current Formula 1 season. As a result, Bottas accepted a reserve role at Mercedes, alongside regular drivers Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli. The latter previously admitted to having learned a lot from the experienced Finn.
Next year, Bottas is expected to be back full-time on the Formula 1 grid, this time with the new Cadillac team. After months of speculation, multiple sources have now confirmed that the ten-time race winner has been signed. The Americans also seem to be aiming for an experienced duo. Bottas is reportedly being joined by former Red Bull driver Sergio Pérez. ESPN reported this week that the Mexican has signed a contract, although this has not yet been officially confirmed.
