Finnish Formula 1 veteran Valtteri Bottas made headlines as he climbed back into an F1 car for a private test session with McLaren at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.
This marked his first time driving a contemporary Formula 1 machine since the 2024 season finale in Abu Dhabi, signaling his continued relevance in the sport despite stepping away from a full-time race seat.
The context : Bottas new role
After a challenging two-year stint with Sauber (formerly Alfa Romeo), where he was replaced by Nico Hulkenberg and F2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto for 2025, Bottas found himself without a race seat at the end of 2024.
However, his experience and proven track record—10 Grand Prix victories and two runner-up finishes in the Drivers’ Championship with Mercedes—made him a valuable asset.
Mercedes quickly welcomed him back into the fold as their reserve driver, a role previously held by Mick Schumacher. This position not only keeps Bottas in the F1 ecosystem but also positions him as a potential stand-in for Mercedes-powered teams, including McLaren, thanks to an agreement tied to their engine supply deal.
The Barcelona test was part of a TPC (Testing of Previous Car) program, where Bottas drove McLaren’s 2023 car, the MCL60. This session was not about chasing lap times or developing new technology but rather about familiarization.
With McLaren’s regular drivers, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, set to lead the team’s charge in 2025, Bottas’ role is to be a reliable backup should either driver be sidelined by injury, illness, or other unforeseen circumstances.
A broader role with Mercedes
Bottas’ test with McLaren is just one facet of his multifaceted role in 2025. As Mercedes’ “Third Driver,” he’s deeply embedded in the team’s operations. He’s pledged to be present at all 24 races, contributing to performance both on and off the track.
This includes analyzing data, reviewing onboard footage from teammates George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli, and providing insights from his decade of F1 experience. At the factory, he’ll spend significant time in the simulator, aiding the development of the W16 car for 2026.
Beyond the technical side, Bottas will also engage in marketing activities and, true to his quirky social media presence, promises “fun moments” for fans online.
