Valtteri Bottas' Nude Calendar Shelved as He Returns to Mercedes
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Valtteri Bottas' return to Mercedes as a reserve driver in F1 2025 comes with some adjustments, including the sidelining of his famous nude calendar. Toto Wolff, however, allows the Finnish driver to keep his mullet.
Valtteri Bottas’ famed nude calendars will take a sabbatical following his return to Mercedes, but team principal Toto Wolff has confirmed the Finnish driver will be allowed to keep his signature mullet for the F1 2025 season.
Toto Wolff Confirms Changes for Bottas' Return
After spending three seasons with Sauber, Bottas will rejoin Mercedes as a reserve driver for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Having previously raced for the Silver Arrows from 2017 to 2021, the Finnish driver secured multiple race wins and twice finished runner-up in the championship.
Bottas has become well-known for his quirky sense of humor, sporting a distinctive mullet and mustache, and engaging in offbeat social media antics. This shift in personality has been highlighted through his playful videos, an honorary Australian persona, and, most notably, the release of a nude calendar titled ‘Botass 2024,’ which raised funds for prostate cancer research.
Mercedes to Maintain Professional Image
Speaking to media, Wolff acknowledged Bottas’ vibrant personality but emphasized that some adjustments would be necessary to align with Mercedes’ brand.
“We are Mercedes, so maybe the nude calendar is not on anymore,” Wolff told Racing News 365. “We’ve said that, but we need to keep him authentic.”
Despite the toned-down approach, Wolff confirmed that Bottas' signature mullet would not be an issue for the team. “If he wants to keep the ugly mullet, then he should,” he added with a smile.
Bottas’ Role at Mercedes in 2025
Returning to Mercedes, Bottas will serve as the primary reserve driver, ready to step in should either George Russell or Andrea Kimi Antonelli be unable to race during the season. The Finn's vast experience and familiarity with the team make him an ideal candidate for this role.
Additionally, Bottas will play a mentorship role for Antonelli, the young Italian talent set to make his Formula 1 debut in 2025.
“Part of Valtteri’s role will be to keep an eye on Kimi,” Wolff explained. “Be there to coach, be there to observe what’s happening on track. Kimi is going to learn from Valtteri and from George.”
A Familiar Face Returns
With Bottas reuniting with his former team, Mercedes gains an experienced and dependable asset in their F1 2025 lineup. While some elements of his off-track personality may be toned down, Bottas remains a crucial figure in Mercedes’ preparations for the upcoming season.
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