Valtteri Bottas says his experience in Formula 1 would be a valuable asset to the incoming Cadillac F1 team, calling the American outfit’s 2026 entry “interesting.”
The Finnish driver does not have a race seat for 2025 since Sauber released him at the end of last year. He has returned to Mercedes as their test and reserve driver.
His name has come up as a potential candidate for Cadillac ahead of its first season in 2026. Bottas mentioned on the Beyond the Grid podcast that he would be a great match for the team.
“I believe they have several drivers in mind,” he said. “I think my experience will be valuable since I’ve raced with three different teams.
“With one of those teams, we had fantastic success. We also achieved some good results with Williams. So, I hope I’m in a strong position.
“To me, this is an exciting project—something new for Formula 1, with an American team that might have a fresh perspective on the sport.
“If I were to drive for them, it would be really interesting because you would start from scratch. The team begins from zero, and you could significantly influence how things develop.”
“That would be very encouraging and fulfilling when success comes.”
Bottas mentioned that he plans to make a decision about his future in 2026 by around August, stating that he is not done with racing yet.
“I find myself without a race seat right now, and it’s not my choice,” Bottas explained. “I really feel – and this feeling came quickly after I learned I wouldn’t have a seat this year – that I’m not finished with F1.”
The driver, who has won 10 Grand Prix races, said if he can’t secure an F1 seat for 2026, he is open to competing in other racing series, including IndyCar and the World Endurance Championship.
Bottas has also shown interest in racing Supercars in Australia at some point during his career.
“I believe I will be racing something,” he confessed. “I’ve been racing since I was six years old. This is the first year I haven’t raced until now – and I really miss it.”
“Right now, everything is possible, and I’m open to anything. Sometimes it’s good to see where life takes you.”
