February 2nd 2025.
Valtteri Bottas is a well-known figure in the world of Formula 1, and it's not just because of his impressive racing skills. The Finnish driver has made a name for himself with his bold fashion choices, most notably his distinctive blonde mullet and iconic moustache. His unique appearance has captured the attention of fans and media alike, making him easily recognizable on and off the track.
Bottas has been a part of the Formula 1 grid for over a decade and is best known for his time as Sir Lewis Hamilton's teammate at Mercedes from 2017 to 2021. During this period, he helped the Silver Arrows win five consecutive constructors' titles, with a total of 10 grand prix wins under his belt. However, after being replaced by George Russell, he joined Alfa Romeo (formerly known as Sauber). Unfortunately, his contract was not renewed at the end of the 2024 season, as he failed to score a single point throughout the year.
But Bottas hasn't bid farewell to Formula 1 just yet. In December, it was announced that he would be returning to Mercedes as their reserve driver, supporting Russell and new teammate Kimi Antonelli. Aside from his success on the track, Bottas has also made a name for himself with his eccentric off-track behavior. He gained notoriety for baring it all in the Netflix series Drive to Survive and even posted pictures of himself swimming naked on social media. In 2024, he released a nude calendar for charity, aptly titled "Bottass 2024," which raised £121,000 for Prostate Cancer Research.
However, it seems that Bottas' wild antics may have to take a backseat, as Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has asked him to tone down his behavior. "We are Mercedes, so maybe the nude calendar is not on anymore," Wolff revealed. "But we need to keep him authentic. And if he wants to keep the ugly mullet, then he should!"
As the reserve driver, Bottas will be ready to step in if needed, but it seems he will also have a mentoring role for the team's newest star, 18-year-old Antonelli. With the pressure of replacing the most successful driver of all time, Lewis Hamilton, on his shoulders, Antonelli will have Bottas to guide and support him. "Part of the role of Valtteri will be to have a look at Kimi," explained Wolff. "Be there to coach, be there to have an eye on what's happening on the track. And Kimi is going to learn from Valtteri and from George."
The 2025 F1 season is set to kick off with the Australian Grand Prix on March 16, and Bottas will be ready to step up if needed, while also taking on a new role as mentor to the younger drivers on the team. Although he may not be making any more nude calendars, he will continue to be an integral part of the Mercedes team and a beloved figure among fans.
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