Valtteri Bottas has conducted a private testing outing with McLaren as part of his overall Formula 1 reserve duties.
Bottas has returned to the Mercedes fold in 2025 as a Reserved Driver and Thursday’s test with McLaren in Barcelona was his first time at the wheel of a contemporary F1 car since the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
McLaren, a Mercedes engine customer, has routinely been offered the German marque’s reserve drivers if necessary.
Bottas’ Barcelona test was carried out in the 2023 MCL60 machine and seen as a necessary preparation should the Finn be needed to deputise for either Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri during a GP weekend.
McLaren’s official Reserve Driver is IndyCar star Pato O’Ward, but the Mexican’s commitments stateside could prevent his readiness to fill either Norris’ or Piastri’s seat due to calendar clashes.
In that instance, Bottas, a 10-time GP winner, is a more than capable substitute.
Bottas’ F1 role at Mercedes
Bottas’ official title at Mercedes is ‘Third Driver’ and the Finn explained on the Brackley-based team’s website what his duties in 2025, beyond McLaren TPC (Testing of Previous Car) runs, entail.
“As the Third Driver, I’ll be at every race, involved with everything to do with performance on and off track,” he said.
“Whether it’s set-up or driving, I’ll be trying to use my experience to contribute to this great team.
“I’ll be getting stuck into data, looking at George [Russell] and [Andrea] Kimi [Antonelli’s] onboards, providing that extra pair of eyes.
“Hopefully, I can keep driving and do some testing too.
“At the factory, I’ll be in the simulator lots, doing development work for the W16.
“There will be some marketing and partner days too, and TikToks of course – I think we’ll have some fun moments on social media this year, so keep your eyes peeled!”
