Valtteri Bottas could make a return to Williams next year as negotiations with the team steadily advance. Since the beginning of the season, it has been clear that retaining Bottas is not a priority at Sauber. Because of this, Bottas has spoken with several midfield outfits – although it is understood that Williams is his most likely destination.
Contract talks are made more difficult by uncompetitive machinery
The drivers’ standings do not paint a flattering picture for Valtteri Bottas. The Finn is rock bottom in the Championship, one of three drivers yet to score a point this season. In a very uncompetitive C44 machine, this year’s campaign has been difficult for the 10-time race winner.
On the rare occasions he’s been within touching distance of points (Australia, China), operational mistakes from Sauber have proven costly. This is a recurring theme for the Swiss team, who also threw away significant points with their far more competitive 2022 challenger.
Regardless, Sauber’s lack of performance has implications for contract negotiations. Whilst F1 teams have a memory beyond the last six months, it would be disingenuous to suggest that recent bias is not a factor in contract negotiations.
As a result, being in the worst car on the grid – on paper – puts Bottas at a major disadvantage. If the 34-year-old were in a package capable of regular points, negotiations would undoubtedly be easier.
Williams interest in Valtteri Bottas has grown
Despite driving in uncompetitive machinery, there is strong interest in Bottas. The former Mercedes driver is an experienced pair of hands, more than capable of competing at a high level.
Like many others in the midfield, Bottas has been waiting for Carlos Sainz’s decision. As the most in-demand driver available, Sainz is widely seen as the next major domino to fall.
However, this is already changing. The Spaniard is taking months to sign a 2025 contract – too long for the likes of Williams. Team principal James Vowles has already praised the 29-year-old and clearly expressed his interest in Sainz.
If the Grove-based project does not convince the Ferrari driver enough to make a commitment, then Vowles cannot wait forever. Because of this, Valtteri Bottas is seen as the favourite to race alongside Alex Albon next season.
Negotiations are understood to have already begun. While nothing is confirmed, it would take a dramatic turn of events for the Finn to be displaced as the British team’s leading candidate.
Bottas would complete a very solid driver partnership at Williams. Someone with his experience and accomplishments would also emphasise the team’s seriousness and ambition.
