Bottas: First talks I had with Cadillac was about two years ago

Cadillac confirmed earlier this week that Bottas and Perez will spearhead their entry into F1, bringing experience, race wins, and over 500 grand prix starts between them. For Bottas, the journey to the new American outfit began long before the official announcement.

Bottas recalled the timeline: “The first talks I had with Graeme [Lowdon] about this project was about two years ago, so it’s quite a while, and then step by step, he kept me in the loop. Earlier this year, it became clear that’s what I want to do.

"In the end, things went pretty straightforward when we started talking more seriously, and it seemed like they wanted me, and I wanted to be there. So it was pretty seamless.”

While Alpine was also an option, Bottas said the Cadillac vision stood out. “That is true, there were some talks, but for me, what became so clear was probably just the whole project. When I heard more about what the plans are, how they have been investing, and who they are getting."

"It’s just at this stage of my career, having something fixed for a certain amount of years to get involved, to get my hands dirty. Starting something from zero, it really doesn’t happen every day. To be part of that is going to be really interesting," said Bottas.

After being overlooked by Sauber and Audi last year, Bottas admitted there was relief in finally securing his F1 return. “It’s a good feeling when you know that everything is sorted, there’s a clear plan, I have a job, so it’s a good feeling and a relief in a way. It almost feels as good as doing my first F1 contract.

"I’m a racing driver again! I’ve had some fun, but obviously, this year will continue as normal with Mercedes. I’ll be here every weekend, but at the same time, of course, preparing for next year.”

With 10 wins and 20 pole positions on his record, Bottas could have walked away satisfied with his career. Instead, a year without racing reaffirmed his desire to return. “It’s something I’ve done all my life. It’s been the first year since forever that I haven’t raced.

"It just confirmed this year to me that I’m still hungry to race. It’s been getting more and more difficult to follow from the side, and more and more I want to be there racing. I still have lots of hunger for the sport.”

For Cadillac, Bottas brings proven pace, experience winning World Championships with Mercedes, and a renewed determination to prove himself in Formula 1’s newest adventure. For the Finn, the project represents unfinished business and a second chance to fight at the front; this time in American colours.