Valtteri Bottas opens up on struggle of Mercedes F1 role: 'It’s been hard'

Valtteri Bottas has opened up on the challenges he has faced in his role with Mercedes this year as he was forced to watch on from the sidelines.

Bottas was dropped from the Sauber F1 squad at the end of the 2024 campaign as the outfit prepared for life as Audi in 2026.

Having raced for Mercedes from 2017 to 2021, Bottas returned to Mercedes as a reserve driver this year, assisting the Brackley-based squad and on standby to step in if one of its drivers became unwell.

The Finn has successfully secured a drive for the 2026 season with newcomers Cadillac, forming an experienced line-up with Sergio Perez.

Reflecting on his season as a third driver, Bottas has admitted he has found not being able to race difficult.

“I knew that it was going to be hard to watch the racing, so I was prepared for it,” Bottas exclusively told RacingNews365.

“It’s been more and more difficult each weekend now to follow on the side, because I just miss racing.

“Of course, I'm doing my job still this year here, but I’m very much looking forward to January as well.

“It’s been hard. Especially once you've done it 12 years in a row, you get used to it.”

Mercedes F1 role helped secure Cadillac seat

However, Bottas has highlighted it has allowed him to appreciate the sport from a different perspective.

“But at the same time, I think it's really made me respect the sport, respect the drivers and everyone in the team, a bit [more], a different perspective on the sport, which can help me in the future.

“I definitely feel, next year being on the grid, way more lucky and proud to be on the grid than I probably would have done without a year of non-racing.”

While Bottas was forced to watch on from the side, the 37-year-old suggested his consistent paddock presence helped his hunt to secure a full-time return.

“It definitely helped,” Bottas said. 

“I think there would have been an opportunity, because we've been speaking with Graeme for a couple of years now, but I think it definitely helped.

“For me as well, it’s a good thing to be involved because this sport never stops. It's always evolving. There's always something new.

“For me to keep in the loop on what's happening, it’s been useful. Probably the most valuable thing is to get some driving.

“I’ve had some, some test days, some events. So I've got some laps here and there. Everything helps.”