Valtteri Bottas considers Mercedes return amid contract uncertainty

Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool

Valtteri Bottas has hinted at a possible return to Mercedes in a reserve role if Sauber, the future Audi team, opts not to renew his contract at season's end.

The 35-year-old Finn, who secured 10 Grand Prix wins with Mercedes alongside Lewis Hamilton from 2017 to 2021, moved to Sauber in 2022.

"Firstly, the priority is to stay as a race driver -- that is what I want, and that is what we are pushing for," Bottas stated at the Mexican Grand Prix. Nevertheless, he remains open to alternatives. "I don't have anything signed, we are in October and I've got to look at all the alternatives. That includes going back to the Mercedes family."

Sauber's team boss, Mattia Binotto, expects a decision on the final 2025 grid slot by mid-November.

Mercedes, which supplies engines to Williams and McLaren, is anticipated to add Alpine to their roster from 2026. Aston Martin will use Mercedes engines next year before switching to Honda power.

As Bottas navigates an uncertain future, a return to Mercedes could provide him with a crucial opportunity to stay engaged in Formula 1.

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