P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Valtteri Bottas has revealed he had a ‘contract ready’ to sign with a rival F1 team prior to committing to Cadillac earlier this year.
Valtteri Bottas had a contract prepared to sign with a rival F1 team before deciding to join Cadillac earlier this year. Despite currently being Mercedes’ test and reserve driver, he continues to support the team and mentor rookie Kimi Antonelli. After competing in every F1 season until 2025, Bottas found himself without a seat when Sauber opted for new drivers this year. He will make his full-time return to racing next year with Cadillac alongside Sergio Perez. Bottas came close to rejoining Williams this year but ultimately missed out due to Carlos Sainz’s signing. Sainz, chosen by Williams over Bottas, had been without a team after Ferrari made way for seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton in 2025.
