Bottas targets an early Ferrari test before Cadillac's debut.

      "Being an F1 driver is the best job in the world"

       23 September 2025 - 14:44

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

      

       Valtteri Bottas is eager to return to a Formula 1 cockpit even before his contract with Cadillac officially begins. Despite reports indicating that Mercedes is preventing its reserve driver from testing until his new agreement formally starts on January 1, the Finn informed the news agency STT that he hopes to drive a 2023 Ferrari before the year concludes. "I’m hopeful we can test it in November or December," Bottas stated, having been sidelined for the entire season. The 36-year-old admits it's been hard to watch others race this season. "Whenever the cars line up on the starting grid, I think, 'Oh my God.' But I've come to appreciate the sport even more." "Being an F1 driver is the best job in the world, and I plan to remember that for years ahead." Cadillac, set to enter as a full works team in 2026, will introduce its own car in January. "I want to be prepared when testing begins in Barcelona," Bottas remarked about the first five-day program planned for the end of that month. The veteran from Nastola, who has ten wins, 20 poles, and 67 podiums to his name, acknowledges the challenges Cadillac will face in learning. "It will take a few years, but I believe I can drive for a few more years and be part of the team’s success." He is encouraged by the seasoned individuals already involved, such as Pat Symonds, Nick Chester, and team leader Graeme Lowdon. "In this team, he has the chance to do things right," Bottas said of Lowdon, the former Marussia chief. "We have a good rapport." He revealed that negotiations with Cadillac were straightforward. "The American side wanted me, so the process moved quickly." With fellow F1 veteran Sergio Perez as his teammate, Bottas anticipates a stable environment. "He’s a calm individual with experience from various teams. We always prioritize both teams, which is precisely what Cadillac needs."