Bottas suggests that Indycar could be a "promising choice" following Formula 1.

      "The top priority is Formula 1," Valtteri Bottas acknowledges.

      The 35-year-old Finnish driver lost his position at Sauber at the end of the last season and has returned to Mercedes as a full-time reserve driver. He is already connected with the new Cadillac team for 2026.

      "There are numerous opportunities in the driver market right now," Bottas stated, according to the Dutch outlet Formule 1. "You always consider that, especially while remaining linked to Formula 1. However, next year still seems quite far off for now. On the flip side, the season will reach its midpoint before we know it," he continued. "So, naturally, I need to think about the upcoming year, but it feels a bit early at this stage. Still, it drives me to put in hard work."

      Nevertheless, if Cadillac decides not to select Bottas for 2026, the ten-time grand prix winner admits he may start considering options outside of Formula 1.

      "My primary focus is Formula 1," he stresses. "However, I must also think about alternatives. In that case, Indycar would certainly be a viable option, though it's not really on my mind at the moment. I'm currently very concentrated on Formula 1, but predicting the future is challenging. Perhaps next year I'll still occupy the same role that I'm in today.

      "Right now, everything remains open, and I'm simply thankful for the chance to return to the team."