Russell: Bottas' Ferrari PU knowledge ‘could be key’ for Mercedes

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George Russell believes that Valtteri Bottas’ return to Mercedes as a reserve driver for the 2025 Formula 1 season will be a major asset to the Brackley-based squad, citing the Finn’s extensive experience and knowledge as key advantages.

Bottas, who previously raced for Mercedes from 2017 to 2021, was recruited by team boss Toto Wolff after failing to secure a full-time race seat for 2025.

During his prior stint with the Silver Arrows outfit, Bottas claimed 10 Grand Prix victories and played a vital role in the team’s constructors’ championship dominance.

Since departing Mercedes, he has spent three seasons at Sauber, where he became well-versed in the Ferrari power unit.

Russell Sees Strategic Advantages in Bottas’ Knowledge

Russell, who replaced Bottas at Mercedes in 2022, is confident that his former rival’s insight – particularly regarding the Ferrari engine – will be beneficial to the team’s development efforts.

“His experience is going to be massive,” Russell said in an interview published on the Mercedes website.

“Having someone with so much simulator and racing knowledge, and who fully knows the team is going to be great.

“Hearing about his last few years at Sauber, with the Ferrari engine could be key too. You always have to keep an open mind as to what others are doing and he has all of that under his belt.”

Past Rivalry Gives Way to Mutual Respect

Russell and Bottas previously had a tense on-track rivalry, most notably in 2021 when they collided in dramatic fashion at Imola.

However, the Briton insists that any lingering friction is long behind them, noting that they now share a positive relationship.

“Obviously years ago we were perceived to not have a strong relationship, but we are both professionals and our relationship has grown, we often travel together and see each other at hotels or in the gym,” he added.

On a lighter note, while Bottas’ return to Mercedes is primarily about his driving expertise, his off-track persona has also garnered attention – especially his beloved mullet, which the adopted Aussie takes great pride in.

Russell joked that they could exchange hair tips, suggesting a creative solution for both of their styles.

“Maybe he could give me some of his at the back, and I can give him some of my hair from the side – I think we would be able to make something pretty extraordinary from the two!” Russell quipped.

With Bottas providing a valuable blend of experience and fresh insights from his time at Sauber, Mercedes looks set to benefit from his return as they prepare for the challenges of the 2025 season.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.