Valtteri Bottas Bids Emotional Farewell to Mercedes in Final 'F1 Explains' Video

Valtteri Bottas is set to conclude his tenure as a Mercedes reserve driver, making an emotional and humorous exit in his final “F1 Explains” video before moving to the Cadillac Formula 1 team in 2026. Bottas, who previously raced for Mercedes from 2017-2021, rejoined the Brackley team in 2024 after his Sauber stint.

Why it matters:

Bottas's departure marks the end of another chapter with Mercedes, a team he helped secure multiple Constructors' Championships. His move to the new Cadillac F1 team in 2026, alongside Sergio Perez, signifies a fresh start for the veteran driver and highlights the growing anticipation around F1's expansion to 11 teams. His popular persona and heartfelt goodbye underscore the strong bonds formed within F1 teams, even as drivers transition.

The details:

• Emotional Goodbye: Bottas began his final "F1 Explains" video with mock tears, stating, "Hi everyone, this is leaving an F1 team explained, by Valtteri Bottas." He acknowledged the sadness of leaving but offered a positive spin, noting, "There's 11 teams in the paddock next year. So we are all one big family and we are going to see each other again."
• Traditional Farewell: The video included a montage of Bottas hugging team members, set to operatic music. He also mentioned a post-Abu Dhabi tradition: "when you leave a team in Formula 1, after the race in Abu Dhabi, you're going to end up in the marina, swimming, whether you like it or not."
• Humorous Twist: The video concludes with a close-up of Bottas, where a cameraman jokingly reminds him to return his watch and team kit, reinforcing his sarcastic humor.
• Future Plans: Bottas will join the new Cadillac F1 team in 2026, partnering with former Red Bull driver Sergio Perez. Cadillac's entry will mark the 11th team on the grid, expanding the sport's presence.

What's next:

Bottas's move to Cadillac in 2026 represents a significant new venture for both the driver and the sport. As F1 expands, drivers like Bottas will play crucial roles in establishing new teams. While his Mercedes chapter closes, fans can look forward to seeing his familiar humor and competitive spirit in a new environment, adding another compelling storyline to the future of Formula 1.