P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Valtteri Bottas has admitted the downturn Mercedes has endured in F1 is a development that he “didn’t quite expect” to happen.
Valtteri Bottas has returned to Mercedes as a third driver after missing out on retaining his Sauber drive. He had a successful period with Mercedes alongside Lewis Hamilton, contributing to 10 victories as they won eight consecutive Constructors’ Championships. Bottas acknowledges the struggles Mercedes faced post his departure, but believes they are showing signs of improvement. Despite being linked with a role at Cadillac in F1’s 2026 season, Bottas is open to opportunities that may arise with Mercedes-powered cars on the grid. He mentioned having “some contacts” with various options before signing a deal with Toto Wolff and is prepared to stay in the game to find a way back to full-time racing.
