Valtteri Bottas talks about his spot at Cadillac being at risk – but who could take his place?
Valtteri Bottas took a year off before making his F1 comeback with Cadillac in 2026. But less than one season in, his future in Grand Prix racing is looking uncertain.
This year, Bottas has struggled compared to his teammate Sergio Perez. Because of this, other names have started coming up as possible replacements in 2027.
Now, Bottas has shared his thoughts on fighting to keep his F1 career alive.
He joined Cadillac hoping for a long-term spot, helping to build the team as it works its way up the ranks. But so far, it’s Perez who has been rewarded with a contract extension through 2029.
Bottas has been slower in qualifying and finished well behind Perez in most races. He’s also had some bad luck with mechanical problems, including a big crash in Mexico after suspension failure and engine trouble in Austin.
Before the Sao Paulo GP, Bottas opened up about the situation.
“It’s never nice,” he told The Athletic. “It’s just an extra distraction. But I’ve learned to deal with it over the years.
“It doesn’t help anything, so it’s a bit of a shame. But that’s just how this sport works. Formula 1 is more popular than ever, and so many people want to get in.”
He added, “Everyone wants to find a way into Formula 1, one way or another.”
Cadillac’s decision is tough because there’s no clear better choice if they replace Bottas, which is why the final call has been delayed while they’ve already signed Perez for a longer stay.
“At the moment, nothing has changed,” Bottas said. “The team seems happy with what I’m doing. I know the goal is long-term, and I know the terms in my contract.
“So right now, it’s just noise.”
He thinks a decision should come soon but explained that it takes time because of all the approvals needed from the board, General Motors, and other key people.
“That’s why it takes a bit longer, but I think it will happen pretty soon.”
If Cadillac does look for a new driver, the top candidate is Colton Herta. He’s currently a test driver for Cadillac but doesn’t have enough points yet for an F1 Super Licence. He’s been running some practice sessions to earn those points and is working hard to get fully ready.
However, Herta hasn’t matched Perez’s pace and admits he’s been a bit shaky during some F1 runs.
Other possible names include Frederik Vesti from Mercedes, who has impressed with his technical skill and was third fastest in a rookie’s free practice session in Mexico.
Esteban Ocon is another option, but he’s had issues with teammates and managers in the past, so it’s unclear if Cadillac would take a chance on him.
Finally, there’s Liam Lawson from New Zealand, known for being bold and impressive in the Red Bull junior team. His spot is currently under threat from another rising star, Nikola Tsolov, so he might be looking for a new team like Cadillac.
So, Bottas’ future may depend on a few big decisions coming soon!