Valtteri Bottas, the 35-year-old Finnish driver and 10-time Grand Prix winner, is plotting a full-time return to Formula 1 in 2026.
Currently serving as a reserve driver for Mercedes in 2025, Bottas remains confident that he still has more to contribute to the sport.
All ten of Bottas’ career victories came during his successful stint with Mercedes, where he played a crucial role in securing five Constructors’ Championships alongside Lewis Hamilton.
Despite his recent challenges, Bottas maintains that he has “a few years” left in F1 and is willing to commit to a long-term project that could help reshape his legacy.
“My aim is to be racing again,” Bottas told TopGear.com. “So that means I’ve got to be aware of what is happening [in the driver market].
“Of course I’m here [in Miami] focused on my job, but at the same time… gotta keep my ears and eyes open.
“I’m not content. I still feel like I definitely have a few years in me, and more to give to the sport. That’s my feeling.
“But again, it’s a sport that is hard to predict how things are going to unfold and if you’re gonna get another chance or not.”
Bottas was dropped by Sauber at the end of the 2024 season following a disappointing campaign that saw the team finish last in the standings.
Nevertheless, the Finnish veteran has kept his focus and is embracing his current role at Mercedes, staying close to the action while evaluating future opportunities.
The Cadillac F1 project, set to debut in 2026, appears to be of strong interest to Bottas.
Known for his experience, racecraft, and technical feedback, he would bring valuable insight to a new entrant aiming to establish itself in the ultra-competitive F1 landscape.
