by Valtteri Bottas continues to push for a contract extension with Sauber. The talks have been going on for months, but an agreement is still not possible.
Due to these stalled negotiations, Bottas is exploring other options – including a possible reserve role at Mercedes.
Bottas: Mercedes reserve role is a possible option
It’s rare that an F1 driver can say that points have been out of reach for an entire season. In the case of Valtteri Bottas, however, it can be said that top 10 results in the C44 are unrealistic.
After showing reasonable pace in the early laps (Bahrain, Australia, China), Sauber had to accept a deficit.
This is bad news for Bottas, who lacks the machinery to deliver significant performances. Although he is an active F1 driver, the Finn has little influence over his future from the cockpit.
This is one of the reasons why his F1 career is at stake.
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Speaking to the media in Mexico, Bottas answered a question about potentially becoming a Mercedes reserve driver:
“Firstly, the most important thing is to stay as a racing driver, that’s what I want and that’s what I’m committed to with Mattia.
“But of course I haven’t signed anything – we’re in October. I have to look at all the alternatives.
“Including returning to the Mercedes family. That’s certainly an option and I would consider it.
“But there are other options besides returning to my priority – which is being a [full-time] Racer.”
There are three weeks between the Brazilian GP this week and the following Las Vegas GP.
On paper, this is a logical time for Sauber to make a driver commitment.
On the other hand, Sauber has had several opportunities to finalize its 2025 lineup. Unsurprisingly, despite still being in the race, Bottas is preparing for a range of scenarios.
While a reserve role at Mercedes is far from ideal, it could serve as a short-term solution before 2026 – when new options could open up for the Finn.
In any case, the ten-time winner’s F1 career is at stake.
