Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has voiced strong support for Valtteri Bottas making a Formula 1 comeback with Cadillac F1 in 2026. The Finnish driver left the F1 grid in 2024 after losing his Kick Sauber seat. He then rejoined Mercedes as a reserve driver, working alongside George Russell and young prospect Kimi Antonelli.
Even without a full-time race seat, Bottas has stayed close to the action. He continues to play a crucial role at Mercedes through simulator work and trackside involvement. The 10-time Grand Prix winner’s dedication has earned praise from Wolff, who believes the Cadillac project could offer him the ideal return.
“Valtteri has been part of the Mercedes family for a long, long time,” Wolff explained in Mercedes’ mid-season review video. “He is a driver that, if some of our guys would have fish poisoning, you put him in the car and he’s going to be absolutely on [the] pace. That’s great to know, that your reserve and third driver is as quick as it gets. But obviously, with Valtteri, he deserves a race seat. Hopefully that door is going to open. Watch this space.”
Bottas Excited About Cadillac’s F1 Entry
Cadillac F1 will join the grid in 2026, backed by TWG Motorsports and General Motors. The team will be led by Graeme Lowdon, the former Virgin Racing and Marussia chief. Bottas has already spoken about the project with excitement, highlighting its fresh approach.
“[It’s] something new to F1, an American team with maybe a different view to the sport,” Bottas told F1’s Beyond The Grid podcast. “If I would be there as a driver, it would be actually very interesting because you can start from scratch. The team starts from zero. You could actually make a big influence on certain things, which direction to go, and that would be very motivating and rewarding when the success comes.”
Bottas also noted that the 2026 regulation changes could play a major role. “I think the rule change is always a good point to jump in because you just never know, if you suddenly get it right you might actually be doing really well from the get-go.”
Cadillac’s Driver Options for 2026
Along with Bottas, another experienced option is Sergio Perez, a six-time Grand Prix winner and former Red Bull driver. His proven pace and popularity make him a strong contender for Cadillac’s new project.
The team has not yet confirmed either of its drivers for 2026. Wolff’s backing, however, shows Bottas is considered a serious candidate. His past success, adaptability, and years of experience with top teams give him the credibility Cadillac might need.
As the countdown to 2026 continues, anticipation grows. Cadillac’s debut promises excitement, and Bottas could well be at the center of it.
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