Valtteri Bottas on His Return to Racing Full-Time, Cadillac F1 & His Next Chapter

Photo Credit: Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team

Valtteri Bottas has always carried the quiet confidence of a driver who lets performance do the talking. The Finnish F1 driver, known for his laser focus and unshakeable composure, built a decade-long Formula 1 career on precision, resilience, and an unwavering work ethic—first rising through Williams, then claiming multiple Grand Prix victories and championship runner-up finishes during his years on the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 team as its third driver. In 2026, Bottas will enter a bold new chapter with the brand-new, American-backed Cadillac team. We caught up with Bottas during the Las Vegas Grand Prix in Mercedes’ exclusive Las Vegas Club to chat about his last days with the team and how it feels to build a brand new team from scratch.

Photo Credit: Michael Potts F1/Shutterstock.com

How does it feel to be able to shape the identity of a team from the very beginning?

It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be involved in a brand-new team from day zero. Being part of that journey from the very start is something really unique, and I’m very excited for it.

How do you plan on shaping that identity?

Hard work is number one. Of course, as a brand and a team, it’s going to look cool — it’s an American team and a big brand — but the most important thing is performance. In the end, we need to perform on track. A fast and reliable car is the top priority, and that will require a lot of work.

When you start something new, you always leave a bit of yourself behind. What do you hope to leave with this team?

I’ve always been someone who prioritizes teamwork. I hope I can connect people so we can be strong and united as a team. But more than anything, I want to leave good results. I want to do my part and deliver performance.

What does joining an American team mean to you?

It’s great — it’s awesome. Americans have really embraced Formula One now, and the popularity of the sport has grown a lot. American sports are very entertaining to watch, and I’m sure it’s going to be the same with this team. It’s a very prestigious brand, and I’m excited about what we’ll be able to build.

Photo Credit: Michael Potts F1/Shutterstock.com