At the presentation of the new Stake team car, journalists asked Valtteri Bottas about a possible return to Mercedes to replace the outgoing Lewis Hamilton. The Finn confirmed last week that he had actually come to Brackley, where Mercedes is based, but did not communicate with team leader Toto Wolff.
“As far as I know, Mercedes and I have not burned any bridges,” Valtteri replied when asked about a return. – It’s no secret that the day before everything happened I was in Brackley, but not at the Mercedes base. I came on business and haven’t spoken to Toto on the phone yet.
Can I go back? My main priority is the Audi project. But if we can’t reach an agreement, then, let’s say, there isn’t a team I couldn’t play for. But I have my own priorities and my own list.”
Commenting on Lewis Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari, Valtteri said: “I think this is a great opportunity for him. There is no doubt that Lewis himself made the decision. I’m happy for him.
It is clear that this transition will lead to movement on the pilot market before 2025. Now it is difficult to predict who will play in which team.
I never thought Lewis would drive for Ferrari. The timing of the announcement is also interesting, but I am happy for Lewis because it is a good move for him. I am sure that bringing Ferrari back to the top is a huge motivation for Lewis.”
Source: F1 News

I am Christopher Clyde, an experienced journalist and content writer with a passion for sports. I have been writing about Formula 1 news for the past five years and am currently employed as an author at athletistic.com, one of the top sports websites in the US.