Valtteri Bottas raced for Mercedes for five seasons, partnering with Lewis Hamilton from 2017 to 2021. During that time he achieved all 10 of his career victories, and claimed 20 pole positions in Formula 1 with Mercedes.

In 2022, Bottas moved to Sauber, which was known as Alfa Romeo at the time. After that decision Mercedes opted to promote George Russell. His tenure with the Sauber was marked by ups and downs. Including a commendable 10th place finish in 2022, a disappointing season in 2024 where he failed to score any points.

When Sauber chose not to renew Bottas’s contract for 2025. They instead opting for Nico Hulkenberg and Brazilian rookie Gabriel Bortoleto. The Finnish driver initiated discussions with Mercedes about a reserve role, aiming to stay in contention as he seeks to make a racing comeback in 2026.