Valtteri Bottas is flying somewhat under the radar in the driver market. With other names taking the spotlight, relatively limited attention has been paid to the 10-time race winner. However, Bottas plays an active role in the equation for 2025. His next destination could be a return to Williams, the team where he debuted in F1.
Although Sauber has yet to finalise their 2025 line-up, they are not expected to retain either of their drivers. This is certainly not a new development for Bottas, who began exploring alternatives relatively quickly.
At the Imola GP, the Finn was spotted at the Williams motorhome. Though this brief sighting is hardly concrete evidence of a contract, it reinforced the prevailing consensus in the paddock. Bottas was, and still is, a driver of huge interest for the British team.
James Vowles has been evaluating a few names to replace Logan Sargeant in 2205. As the summer break approaches, a clearer is emerging of who will become Alex Albon’s next teammate.
Valtteri Bottas, Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber C44, leads Alex Albon, Williams FW46; 2024 Miami Grand Prix, Formula One World Championship
Bottas becomes the favourite to join Williams
Carlos Sainz was initially the first choice at Williams. However, as detailed in recent weeks, the Ferrari driver is alienating the likes of James Vowles by taking so long to make a decision.
Understandably, his reluctance to commit to Vowles’ project has pushed the former Mercedes strategist to look elsewhere. While teams want the best talent available, signing someone with enthusiasm and confidence in a team’s trajectory is essential.
Partly because of this, Valtteri Bottas is a candidate who ticks all the boxes for the Grove-based operation. He is an experienced and capable driver who will undoubtedly push Alex Albon to raise his level. In such a hotly competitive midfield, having two drivers competing at a high level is essential.
Bottas is also famous for preferring the security of a multi-year contract. This is perfectly congruent with Vowles’ vision, which is to have a consistent driver pairing for 2025 and 2026.
The Finn is, of course, hugely accomplished. Of F1’s active drivers, only the World Champions have more decorated careers. By joining Williams, he brings a certain element of credibility and seriousness to their aspirations.
Although nothing is official, it will be crucial to observe the evolution of negotiations between Bottas and Williams. Talks will undoubtedly ramp up in the coming weeks as teams begin to pull the trigger in the market.
