Bottas acknowledges discussions with Alpine and Cadillac.

      Flavio initially expressed interest via Toto.

      Valtteri Bottas has acknowledged that discussions have occurred between Cadillac and Alpine. The 10-time Grand Prix winner, currently serving as Mercedes’ full-time reserve driver, is strongly linked to a potential full-time return to the grid next year with the newly established team Cadillac. However, it was revealed last weekend in Austria that Bottas’ team principal, Toto Wolff, had a half-hour meeting with Flavio Briatore. The discussion centered around the possibility of Bottas replacing Briatore’s underachieving rookie protégé, Franco Colapinto, as Alpine struggles in last place in the constructors’ standings.

      "Yes, you could say that," Bottas responded to Viaplay when asked about the talks with Briatore. "He first displayed interest through Toto."

      Many believe Briatore might view Bottas as a simpler way to secure points in 2025 and to enhance political ties with Mercedes, as the Enstone-based team transitions to costly customer Mercedes power next year. "A short stint somewhere - will that benefit me in any way?" Bottas said. "I’m not sure. The focus is really on 2026 and beyond. I think there will likely be more discussions about next year than this year."

      The Finnish driver suggested that Cadillac could be a better long-term choice, with the team's principal Graeme Lowdon present at Silverstone for discussions with potential drivers this weekend. "The situation is that conversations have taken place," Bottas confirmed. "It's just discussions at this point. I learned, especially last year, that nothing is certain in this sport until contracts are signed. Currently, we are exploring all possibilities."

      One of those possibilities could be a short stint with Alpine for half a season in 2025, with no assurance of a contract extending beyond that. "I’m prepared to jump in the car at any time," Bottas asserted.