Bottas Embarks on New Chapter as Mercedes

Bottas Embarks on New Chapter as Mercedes Closes Historic Cycle

Valtteri Bottas is preparing to turn the page on his Mercedes tenure as the Silver Arrows conclude a significant era in the team's history. The Finnish driver is set to begin an exciting new venture with Cadillac, marking a major transition for both parties.

A significant chapter in Mercedes' storied history is drawing to a close, with the conclusion of an important cycle for the Brackley-based outfit. Meanwhile, Finnish driver Valtteri Bottas is gearing up for what promises to be a fresh challenge on the racing calendar.

Bottas' forthcoming move to Cadillac represents a pivotal moment in his career trajectory. After his time representing Mercedes, the driver is now focused on the opportunities that await him with his new team. This transition comes as Mercedes prepares to move beyond the current phase of its competitive journey.

The shift marks a turning point not only for Bottas, who will be seeking to establish himself with his new organization, but also for Mercedes, which is entering a new era following the conclusion of their existing campaign. As the sport continues to evolve, both driver and team are preparing for the chapters that lie ahead, with Bottas embracing the prospect of his fresh start in his new colors.

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BBC Sport F1

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Art. 1.3.1

Art. 1.3.4

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Technical Regulations

Article 1.3.1

FIA Source

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.

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Article 1.3.4

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Warranty of No Conflicting Contracts

Chapter: SECTION C: TECHNICAL REGULATIONS

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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

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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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