Mercedes prevents Bottas from participating in the naked calendar for '25.

      Mercedes has prohibited Valtteri Bottas from producing a follow-up to his ’Botass’ semi-naked calendar. Last year, while he was still a driver for Sauber, the Finnish racer created a charity calendar benefiting prostate cancer research, featuring his bare backside. However, according to reports from The Sun and Bild newspapers, upon his return to Mercedes as a reserve driver, team principal Toto Wolff has declined the release of Bottas’ 2025 calendar sequel.

      On the other hand, Wolff and Mercedes are supportive of the 35-year-old maintaining his ’mullet’ hairstyle, which plays a significant role in Bottas’ remarkable image transformation that began after he was replaced as Lewis Hamilton’s teammate at Mercedes following the 2021 season. Bottas was succeeded by George Russell, who now holds a senior position over rookie Kimi Antonelli, particularly after Hamilton's 2025 shift to Ferrari.

      Russell expressed his contentment with Bottas' return to Mercedes in a supportive capacity. "In the past, we were seen as not having a strong relationship," Russell remarked, "but we are both professionals, and our bond has improved. We often travel together and meet at hotels or in the gym. His experience will be invaluable. Having someone with extensive simulator and racing expertise, who is well-acquainted with the team, will be fantastic."