Bottas Embarks on New Chapter as Mercedes Closes a Historic Chapter
Valtteri Bottas is poised to begin an exciting new venture with Cadillac, marking the conclusion of a significant era at Mercedes. The transition represents a pivotal moment for both the Finnish driver and the German constructor as they move forward separately.

A landmark period in Mercedes' storied history has drawn to a close, with Valtteri Bottas now preparing to turn the page on his career with a bold move to Cadillac.
The Finnish driver's departure signals the end of an important chapter for the Brackley-based team, which has dominated Formula 1 in recent years. Bottas, who has been a crucial component of Mercedes' success, now looks ahead to fresh challenges and opportunities with his new team.
For Bottas, the move to Cadillac represents a chance to embark on an entirely different phase of his career, bringing with him valuable experience and expertise accumulated during his time at one of the sport's most successful organizations. The transition underscores the ever-evolving nature of Formula 1, where even established partnerships eventually reach their natural conclusion.
As Mercedes prepares to move forward without Bottas, both parties close this significant chapter with the shared accomplishments and memories that defined their time together. Meanwhile, Bottas' upcoming assignment with Cadillac promises new possibilities and the opportunity to make his mark with an organization pursuing its own ambitious objectives in the sport.
Original source
BBC Sport F1
Related Regulations
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Full Regulation Text
Article 1.3.1
Supply Contract Terms for New Customer Competitor
Chapter: SECTION C: TECHNICAL REGULATIONS
In Simple Terms
When a Power Unit manufacturer supplies a new team, they must offer similar contract terms to what existing customer teams receive, except for the price itself. The manufacturer can use any terms that at least one other customer team has agreed to, or if no other teams exist, they have complete freedom in setting payment conditions.
- New customer teams must receive substantially identical contract terms as existing customer teams (excluding price)
- PU manufacturers can impose any terms that at least one existing customer competitor has already accepted
- If no other existing customer competitors exist, the PU manufacturer has sole discretion over payment terms
- Price is the only contractual element specifically excluded from the 'substantially same terms' requirement
Official FIA Text
Supply contract must be on substantially same terms as those with Existing Customer Competitors, except Price. PU Manufacturer may impose terms which at least one other Existing Customer Competitor agreed to. If no other Existing Customer Competitor exists, PU Manufacturer has sole discretion on payment terms excluding Price.
Article 1.3.4
Warranty of No Conflicting Contracts
Chapter: SECTION C: TECHNICAL REGULATIONS
In Simple Terms
When a new team joins F1 with a power unit supplier, they must promise they don't have any other deals with competing engine manufacturers. If they do have conflicting agreements, they need to cancel them before the contract period starts.
- New teams must exclusively commit to their chosen power unit supplier
- Any existing contracts or options with rival engine manufacturers must be terminated
- This warranty applies for the entire contract period with the power unit supplier
- Teams cannot have competing manufacturer agreements in place
Official FIA Text
New Customer Competitor warrants no binding contracts or options with another PU manufacturer. Must terminate any conflicting contracts or options for the contract period.
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