Mika Salo: Valtteri Bottas the right fit for Cadillac F1 debut

Mika Salo has given his seal of approval to Cadillac’s choice of fellow Finn Valtteri Bottas for the brand’s maiden Formula 1 campaign in 2026.

The former Ferrari and Toyota driver told Iltalehti, a Finnish daily newspaper, that Bottas’ recent career decisions put him in the best position for a comeback, saying: “It was expected and good news.

“Valtteri did exactly the right thing by staying with Mercedes as a third driver and staying with the development and modern times. He was the only right alternative for Cadillac.”

Bottas, 35, endured a tough period at Sauber after leaving Mercedes, often appearing dispirited in uncompetitive machinery. He acknowledged Cadillac’s opening season will be another uphill task.

“The first year will definitely not be easy, but when you prepare for the worst, it is easier mentally,” said Bottas. “Graeme has warned me, but I know what to expect.”

Still, he stressed he does not believe Cadillac will simply occupy the back of the pack. Salo told Ilta-Sanomat, another leading Finnish publication, that Bottas’ dependability is exactly what a brand-new project requires.

“Valtteri is reliable and doesn’t destroy cars. A young driver can break a lot of things, which makes development work more difficult.” However, Salo was more sceptical about the team’s other pick, Sergio Perez. German media has already criticised the move, arguing Mick Schumacher might have been a more logical choice.

“I think someone younger would have been suitable alongside Bottas, but with experience in F1,” Salo commented. “I think money was a pretty big factor behind the decision. Cadillac gets quite a lot of support from Mexico.”