Ever since Alfa Romeo went its separate ways, pundits and fans have been wondering if Valtteri Bottas will return to Mercedes. Yes, he will, but not in the way we thought!
If former F1 insider Christian Fittipaldi's information is correct, then Bottas will return as Toto Wolff's right-hand man, in a mentoring role of sorts. The comparison to a right-hand man is certainly not an exaggeration, as according to Fittipaldi's reports, Bottas will take over from Jerome d'Ambrosio, who left for Ferrari.
Just how big a leap it will be for the Finn is well illustrated by the fact that d'Ambrosia was considered a serious candidate to take over as Mercedes team principal following Wolff's retirement. He has led Mercedes as deputy on several occasions. If the report is true, it could be great news for new signing Andrea Kimi Antonelli, who has a great relationship with the Finn, and Valtteri Bottas would be hard-pressed to find anyone better to help the rookie settle in.
