Bottas sets Mercedes expectation as F1 seat rival starts talks

Valtteri Bottas does not expect Mercedes to prevent him leaving for a rival F1 team if a race seat were to become available.

The Finnish driver has rejoined the Brackley-based squad as its third driver, in support of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, after striking out on a full-time drive for the campaign ahead.

With Stake preferring to partner Nico Hulkenberg with F2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto, Bottas has been consigned to a season on the sidelines as he plots his next move.

However, if that were to come sooner than anticipated, he does not believe Mercedes would stand in his way, despite the 10-time grand prix winner being contracted for the entire year.

"We both know, me and the team, that we've got to be dynamic," the 35-year-old told Sky Sports F1. "Of course, at the moment, I'm fully committed for the year, giving everything I have for the team and trying to help the best I can.

"But if there's an opportunity to race, I doubt the team would stand in between that, so let's see. Let's first take it race by race, get the season started, and then we will see what the year brings - and also what '26 brings."

Bottas not currently talking to Cadillac F1

With F1 likely to expand to 11 teams for 2026, the expected arrival of Cadillac will provide two more seats for the drivers currently on the outside looking in.

Although, Bottas has not yet spoken to the American outfit about opportunities there, despite it emerging that Sergio Perez is already engaged in talks with the General Motors-backed operation after being dropped by Red Bull.

"No, I think they've been very busy with actually setting up the team, setting [up] the board, and all these kind of things," Bottas said when asked about the prospect.

"So, no, nothing yet. It's a bit too early for that, but that's it."