Mercedes F1 chief Toto Wolff confirms talks over Alpine driver signing

Formula 1

Mercedes F1 chief Toto Wolff confirms talks over Alpine driver signing

Mercedes star Valtteri Bottas could be set to leave

By Sam Cook.

Tuesday 15 July 2025 19:00

Mercedes F1 chief Toto Wolff has confirmed that he has held talks with senior Alpine figure Flavio Briatore over a potential driver switch.

Mercedes entered 2025 with a strong driver lineup, with race-winner George Russell partnering young hotshot Kimi Antonelli, with the pair backed up by experienced star Valtteri Bottas in a reserve role.

Bottas rejoined Mercedes after being axed by Sauber at the end of 2024, having previously raced with the Brackley-based outfit between 2017-2021, winning 10 grands prix in total.

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However, the 35-year-old has made it clear that his priority is to once again have a full-time place on the grid for 2026, when new regulations come sweeping into the sport.

Rumours have linked him with a move to Alpine, with reports suggesting that he may be being lined up for a switch to the Enstone outfit as soon as this season.

"I met him today, and we talked about Valtteri," Wolff confirmed to Viaplay at the British Grand Prix about Britatore.

"It seems that the interest in Valtteri is increasing even further.

"He deserves this spot. If someone snatches him up as a racing driver, we'll let him go. With a tear in our eyes, of course."

Where will Bottas race in 2026?

Cadillac are another team that have been linked with the services of Bottas, with their team principal Graeme Lowdon confirming that they are looking for at least one experienced racer.

2026 will be the American outfit's first season in the sport, and the likes of Bottas and Sergio Perez have been tipped to fill the two extra seats on the grid.

Therefore, Alpine will have to act quickly if they are to secure the services of the Finnish driver, and may have to hand him a contract beyond the end of this season if they are to beat Cadillac and other teams to his signature.

Bottas has been providing back up for both Russell and Antonelli throughout 2025, and has been enjoying more of a mentor role for 18-year-old Italian sensation Antonelli.

NASCAR Mercedes Toto Wolff Alpine Valtteri Bottas Flavio Briatore