F1 NEWS;Bottas Prepares for Possible McLaren Switch with Private…read more 

F1 NEWS;Bottas Prepares for Possible McLaren Switch with Private…read more

Mercedes F1 reserve driver Valtteri Bottas is quietly preparing for a potential future move to McLaren. The 35-year-old Finnish driver recently participated in a private test with the McLaren team, driving their 2023 MCL60 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

Bottas, who returned to Mercedes as a reserve driver for the 2025 season after being dropped by Sauber, has adapted well to his new role. In addition to supporting rookie driver Kimi Antonelli, Bottas is expected to stay in peak physical condition, participate in test sessions, and be ready to step in if needed to replace Antonelli or his teammate, George Russell, during any of the 24 race weekends this season.

However, Bottas’ private test with McLaren indicates he may also be preparing for a potential switch to the team. As a reserve for Mercedes, Bottas could be called upon to drive for any of the Mercedes-powered teams in the event of an emergency. These teams include McLaren, Williams, and Aston Martin, all of which use Mercedes engines. While Aston Martin has a strong reserve setup, both McLaren and Williams may look to Bottas for assistance should the need arise.

Bottas, who raced for Mercedes alongside seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton from 2017 to 2021, has a deep understanding of Mercedes power units. He played a crucial role in the team’s dominance in the Constructors’ Championship, helping Mercedes win the title eight years in a row from 2014 to 2021.

Following his private McLaren test, Bottas shared his excitement on social media, posting a video from the track with the caption: “Nice to be back with Mercedes power today.”