Valtteri Bottas partnered Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes for five seasons. The Finnish driver played the ideal role of a second driver and helped the seven-time world champion’s title bids.

However, Bottas’s F1 career remains uncertain following Audi’s decision to not renew his contract.

The 35-year-old has raced for Sauber since 2022. Audi has essentially taken over the Hinwil-squad as it prepares for its 2026 F1 entry. New Sauber F1 Chief Mattia Binotto decided to replace Valtteri Bottas for next season with McLaren junior Gabriel Bortoleto.

Bottas is now looking for options to stay on the grid. Although, it is likely that the Finn will need to switch to a reserve role. As per reports, Valtteri Bottas is willing to go back to Mercedes as a reserve driver next season. As Toto Wolff‘s squad already has George Russell and Kimi Antonelli for 2025. The 35-year-old even admitted that he was contemplating a return to the Silver Arrows.

Mattia Binotto reveals the reason for sacking Valtteri Bottas

Audi’s Sauber F1 team has had a disastrous run in 2024 with no points under its belt. Mattia Binotto is perhaps looking to make major changes for next year. The Italian highlighted that Bottas and the team mutually parted ways after failing to agree on final conditions for a renewal. Although, he left the door open for the Finn for the future.

Mercedes could be a good option for Valtteri Bottas. Staying connected with the Silver Arrows could allow him to grab any opportunity that arises on the grid. However, it is a shame to see a 10-time F1 race winner being pushed to the sidelines.