Former Backer of Valtteri Bottas Criticizes Driver’s Lack of Contact
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Former backer Antti Aarnio-Wihuri claims Valtteri Bottas ended contact after financial support ceased. Insights into Bottas' F1 career and potential return in 2026.
A Former Supporter Speaks Out
Businessman Antti Aarnio-Wihuri, a longtime financial supporter of Valtteri Bottas, has claimed the Finnish driver cut off all contact after his financial backing ended. The 84-year-old, who heads the Wihuri Group and boasts a net worth of approximately $1.5 billion, stated that his contributions were crucial in helping Bottas secure a Mercedes seat, but he expressed disappointment at the lack of acknowledgment since their partnership ended.
A €20 Million Investment
Aarnio-Wihuri estimates he invested around €20 million in Bottas' career. The relationship ended in 2019 when Bottas began earning significant sums as a Mercedes driver. Aarnio-Wihuri explained, “We stopped supporting Bottas when his personal income exceeded €1 million. At that point, it no longer made sense to continue backing him financially.”
However, Aarnio-Wihuri added, “It’s not a problem for me, but I do wonder about someone whose whole career depended on us – he stopped all contact. After all, we got him to Mercedes; he would never have got there without us.”
Valtteri Bottas’ F1 Future
Currently serving as Mercedes' reserve driver for the 2025 season, Bottas is working to reestablish himself on the Formula 1 grid by 2026. Speaking about his career, Bottas has referred to unfinished business in the sport and remains optimistic about his prospects as Formula 1 heads toward significant regulation changes in 2026.
“There’s going to be two more seats,” Bottas told RacingNews365, referencing Cadillac’s entry into the sport. “They need drivers, they need experience. I have good relations with Graeme [Lowdon, Cadillac’s team principal]. He’s seen what I can do and bring to a team. So I see that as a possibility.”
Mixed Opinions on a Comeback
Aarnio-Wihuri, however, is less optimistic about Bottas' future. “My understanding is that his career is over – in practice. And he’s getting on in years,” he commented. Bottas' representatives declined to comment directly on Aarnio-Wihuri's claims but stated, “There are always two sides to the story,” while expressing gratitude for those who continue to support the driver.
Opportunities on the Horizon
As Bottas looks toward 2026, he remains focused on staying involved in Formula 1, targeting opportunities with new or expanding teams. Cadillac's confirmed entry and leadership under Graeme Lowdon provide hope for a potential return to the grid.
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