P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Valtteri Bottas gets Mercedes test outing in fastest-ever F1 car
Valtteri Bottas recently returned to Mercedes by testing in their dominant 2020 F1 car at Circuit Paul Ricard. After missing out on a full-time drive at Sauber for 2025, he took on the role of Mercedes’ test and reserve driver. Earlier this year, Bottas had driven for McLaren in their MCL60 from 2023, being prepared to fill in if needed for McLaren’s team. Bottas’ return saw him reuniting with the Mercedes W11, considered the fastest F1 car due to its record lap times and high downforce. Although the Mercedes W11 was not the most successful in terms of wins, it was renowned for its speed and performance during the 2020 season. Despite some setbacks at Monza and Sakhir Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton secured his seventh title with Mercedes at Istanbul Park, showcasing his legendary driving skills in challenging conditions.
