Valtteri Bottas returns to racing at Race of Champions after Sauber exit
- Valtteri Bottas will compete in the Race of Champions in Sydney in March 2025 after losing his seat at Sauber.
- He has been replaced by Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto for the 2025 F1 season.
- Bottas plans to return to Mercedes as a reserve driver and continues to seek opportunities to race in F1.
In November 2024, Valtteri Bottas confirmed that he would participate in the Race of Champions, set to take place in Sydney, Australia, in March 2025. This announcement comes after the driver lost his seat at Sauber for the upcoming Formula 1 season, where he has been replaced by Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. Despite this setback, Bottas has not lost interest in continuing his career in F1, indicating his intention to return to the sport in the future. As a substitute, he is expected to rejoin Mercedes as a reserve driver following his departure from Sauber. The Race of Champions is an annual event that attracts various motorsport champions from around the globe, and Bottas will be competing there for a second time. The 2025 competition is unique as it will take place on an asphalt track inside Sydney’s Accor Stadium, a setting that diverges from the recent editions that were held in snowy locations. Bottas previously participated in the event in 2023, where he formed a celebrated pairing with two-time F1 world champion Mika Hakkinen. Looking ahead, Bottas is excited about showcasing his skills at the Race of Champions as he has garnered a fan following in Australia, attributed partly to his relationship with Tiffany Cromwell, an Australian cyclist. His popularity will likely help draw attention to the event, which will feature several high-profile competitors, including retired F1 champion Sebastian Vettel and rally legend Sebastien Loeb. Bottas' commitment to the Race of Champions reaffirm his determination to remain active in motorsports despite his current challenges within Formula 1. Bottas' plans reflect both his resilience and passion for racing, as he remains optimistic about regaining a full-time F1 position in the near future. Although he is currently not on the grid, his engagement in competitive events like the Race of Champions provides him with the opportunity to keep his racing spirit alive and stay connected with his fan base.