Valtteri Bottas is set to rejoin the Formula 1 grid in 2026 with Cadillac, partnering with Sergio Perez after a year-long hiatus. While he could have had a low-key 2025, Bottas remained active as Mercedes’ reserve driver and undertook an adventurous sabbatical.
Bottas, the same driver who completed an Ironman from his villa in 2024, found plenty to keep himself entertained during the previous season. Without race pressure, he embraced numerous sporting challenges, engaging experiences, and frequent appearances in the paddock, ensuring he was never idle despite the lack of F1 racing.
Exploring Australia
In 2025, Bottas became quite the honorary Aussie, spending a significant amount of time in Australia, the home of his cyclist partner, Tiffany Cromwell. His laid-back style fit right in, and he immersed himself in Australian sports culture, supporting teams like Adelaide United and celebrating the Ashes victory over England.
Always eager to explore, Bottas took advantage of Australia’s breathtaking scenery, embarking on challenging hikes, scuba diving adventures, and logging miles on his bike.
Bottas as an Influencer
Bottas flourished as a social media influencer during 2025, exceeding expectations beyond his previous role at Kick Sauber. Though not racing, he remained highly visible in the paddock, combining team responsibilities with media engagements while gaining notable popularity online.
Equipped with a bike, GoPro, and extensive track knowledge, he created entertaining track tours that captured fans’ attention. Bottas also ventured into roles such as a Mercedes fashion intern and a weatherman, with his popular video series “F1 Explained by Valtteri Bottas” showcasing his humor and expertise.
Unconventional Celebrations
Unexpectedly, Bottas became a wedding officiant at a Vegas-themed event during the race weekend, adding a layer of fun to the F1 experience. One couple received a special surprise as Bottas joined their ceremony, showcasing his natural ease in the role.
In addition to his playful side, Bottas prioritized fitness and adventure during his time off the track, engaging in water sports and exercising in scenic locations. His cycling passion was evident as he participated in races, even placing well in events like the Australian Gravel Nationals. Transitioning to the water, he joined SailGP’s ROCKWOOL Racing Team, quickly making a name for himself as one of the fastest sailors in the competition.
Bottas Behind the Wheel
Even without a full race schedule in 2025, Bottas took every opportunity to get back behind the wheel as Mercedes’ reserve driver, accumulating valuable testing mileage and engaging in promotional events across various stunning venues.
From thrilling donut displays in Korea to showcasing classic racing cars at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Bottas continued to dazzle fans and showcase his driving skills. He participated in the Race of Champions, teaming up with Finnish motorsport legend Heikki Kovalainen and gaining a fan following in Australia.
Cadillac’s New Chapter
Excitement surrounded Bottas’s return to racing, announced in August 2025 as he signed with Cadillac for the upcoming season. The transition from Mercedes, where he enjoyed immense success, was emotional but heartfelt, with Bottas expressing gratitude for his time with the team.
After a rewarding “gap year,” he embraced his future with Cadillac, undergoing a seat fit and conveying enthusiasm for the new challenges ahead.
Preserving the Iconic Mullet
One of Bottas’s most significant side quests in 2025 was maintaining his famous mullet, which remained impeccably styled throughout the season. From barbers on the road to engaging discussions about his hairstyle with fans, he confirmed his commitment to keeping both his mullet and mustache, much to the delight of F1 enthusiasts.
