Valtteri Bottas Reflects on 'Hard' Mercedes Reserve Role After F1 Exit
Summary
Valtteri Bottas has opened up about the unexpected difficulty of his 2024 season as a Mercedes reserve driver, admitting it's been a challenge to watch races from the sidelines. Despite the emotional toll of not competing, Bottas has secured a full-time drive with Cadillac for 2026, crediting his paddock presence and the unique perspective gained from his reserve role as beneficial for his future in F1.
Valtteri Bottas has candidly spoken about the unexpected challenges of his 2024 season as a Mercedes reserve driver, admitting it's been "hard" to watch F1 races from the sidelines after 12 consecutive years on the grid. Despite the difficulty, Bottas has secured a full-time drive with newcomers Cadillac for the 2026 season.
Why it matters:
- For a veteran driver accustomed to the thrill of competition, a season out of the cockpit presents significant mental and emotional hurdles, underscoring the relentless drive that defines F1 athletes.
- Bottas's perspective offers a rare glimpse into the psychological toll of a reserve role, even for a driver with a guaranteed future seat.
The details:
- Bottas was dropped by Sauber at the end of the 2024 season as the team transitioned to Audi for 2026.
- He returned to Mercedes, where he raced from 2017 to 2021, taking on a reserve driver role to assist the Brackley-based squad.
- Emotional Struggle: Bottas told RacingNews365 that he "knew that it was going to be hard to watch the racing," but found it increasingly difficult each weekend.
- Appreciation for the Sport: Despite the struggles, Bottas noted that the experience offered a "different perspective on the sport," which he believes will help him in the future.
- Paddock Presence: He credits his consistent presence in the F1 paddock as a factor that helped secure his 2026 Cadillac seat, along with ongoing discussions with Graeme.
- Staying Current: Bottas emphasized the value of remaining involved in F1, a sport that "never stops" and is "always evolving," allowing him to "keep in the loop."
- Track Time: He also highlighted the importance of test days and events, which provided him with valuable track time, stating, "Everything helps."
What's next:
Bottas is now looking forward to his new chapter with Cadillac in 2026, forming an experienced lineup alongside Sergio Perez. He believes his year away from full-time racing will make him appreciate his return to the grid even more.
- His current role at Mercedes continues through the remainder of the 2024 season, but his focus is clearly shifting towards preparing for his comeback.
- This experience underscores the competitive spirit of F1 drivers, even those with long and successful careers, and their deep-seated need to race.
Original Article :https://racingnews365.com/valtteri-bottas-opens-up-on-struggle-of-mercedes-f1-ro...