Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has openly expressed his desire to bring Valtteri Bottas back into the team for 2025.
Rumours are swirling that the 34-year-old Finn, who will part ways with Audi-owned Sauber at the end of 2024, could join Mercedes as an official reserve driver and advisor for the 2025 season. This move might set him up for a potential return to Formula 1 in 2026.
"Nothing has been signed, nothing is ready," Wolff told Viaplay during the Las Vegas GP weekend. "But if we could get him back in the family, we would all be full of joy.
"When it's possible to get a driver like Valtteri back, you can consider yourself very lucky," Wolff added. Bottas was previously partnered with Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes from 2017 to 2021, during which he secured 10 race wins.
In addition to his reserve driver role, there is speculation that Bottas may also compete in the World Endurance Championship. Mercedes-AMG has announced a collaboration with LMGT3 team Iron Lynx starting in 2025, which could provide Bottas with opportunities in endurance racing.
Wolff confirmed that contract discussions are ongoing.
"You know what contract negotiations are like—lawyers always want to make contracts breakable," he joked. "No, the lawyers are wonderful, and it is only a matter of time."
