Valtteri Bottas 'Mentally Prepared for the Worst' Ahead of Cadillac F1 Debut

Valtteri Bottas is already "mentally preparing himself for the worst" as he embarks on the Cadillac F1 project. After a year as Mercedes' reserve driver, Bottas joins Sergio Perez at the new team, which debuts next season.### Why it Matters:Cadillac's entry marks a significant expansion for F1, bringing a major American automotive brand to the grid. Bottas's veteran experience, paired with Perez, will be crucial in building a competitive new team from the ground up.### The Details:Cadillac, backed by General Motors, will use Ferrari power units for its first two years before switching to an in-house engine in 2028.Bottas, who turns 36 this week, stated that team principal Graeme Lowdon made it clear from the start that the journey would be tough as F1's 11th team.He compared the mental reset to his move from Mercedes to Alfa Romeo, emphasizing managing expectations and working hard for eventual rewards.### What He's Saying:"Mentally, if you always kind of prepare for the worst, it's better, because whatever you then achieve is going to be really positive and rewarding.""It's all about just managing the expectations, working hard, and the rewards will come, and that's what I'm excited for."### Looking Ahead:Bottas had discussions with Lowdon two years ago, long before Cadillac's entry was granted in March.He believes that despite the "mountain of work" ahead, the team's structure and personnel will allow them to "get relatively quickly up to the pace and enjoy some success."He and Perez aim to guide the team in the right direction and achieve success together in the coming years.