Bottas Reacts to Hamilton’s Move to Ferrari: Open to Mercedes Reunion Amid Driver Market Shake-Up

Valtteri Bottas is open to the possibility of reuniting with George Russell at Mercedes now that Lewis Hamilton will be departing from the team. Bottas expressed his astonishment at Hamilton’s unexpected move to Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season, recognizing that it not only presents a significant opportunity for Hamilton but also has the potential to shake up the entire sport. As a former teammate of Hamilton’s at Mercedes, Bottas found himself reflecting on the recent announcement. During the unveiling of Sauber’s new Stake F1 car, the Kick C44, Bottas was asked about his reaction to the monumental driver change. The Finnish driver admitted that he was surprised by the news, as he never thought such a move could happen, but ultimately believes it is a positive step for Hamilton. Bottas acknowledged the significance of Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari, as it marks a major shift in the driver market for the 2025 season. He also highlighted the potential for increased competition in the sport, as multiple drivers, including himself, will be considering their contract options at the end of the current season. Bottas commented that this driver change will likely lead to movement in the market for the 2025 season, making it difficult to predict how things will unfold. He sees Hamilton’s move as an exciting challenge for the seven-time World Champion and believes it will motivate him to elevate Ferrari to the top of Formula 1. Bottas also recognizes that this move will have a ripple effect on the sport, creating opportunities for other drivers and enhancing the overall competitiveness of Formula 1. While Bottas is primarily focused on staying with his current team, which is expected to transition to Audi, he is open to the possibility of returning to Mercedes if Team Principal Toto Wolff extends an offer. Bottas made it clear that if that opportunity doesn’t arise, he is open to exploring other teams, as he has his priorities and a list of potential options. Despite his openness to other opportunities, Bottas expressed his surprise and approval of Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, acknowledging the impact it will have on the driver market and Formula 1 as a whole. While he remains committed to his current team’s Audi project, he remains open to exploring other opportunities if they arise, including a potential return to Mercedes.