about 2 hours ago

Valtteri Bottas Says Williams Return Fell Through: ‘Carlos Sainz Happened’

Bottas said he was “pretty close” to rejoining Williams after 2024 talks with team boss James Vowles: “Last year we had the contract already.” It collapsed when “Carlos Sainz happened.” Without a seat, he’s Mercedes’ third driver in 2025 and returns in 2026 with Cadillac alongside Sergio Perez. He praised Vowles: “Brought so much knowledge… they’ve made progress” at Williams.