Valtteri Bottas has acknowledged that it is "very likely" he will join Mercedes as their primary Formula 1 reserve driver for 2025, replacing Mick Schumacher.
Bottas's final race for Audi-owned Sauber ended in dramatic fashion, with a crash capping off a literally pointless season.
"It's good that this part of my career is over now," he told Viaplay. "We'll see what the future brings."
The 35-year-old's father, Rauno, was present in Abu Dhabi to witness what might be his son's last appearance as a race driver.
"I wouldn't be that certain that it's his last race," Rauno told Viaplay. "It's a weird feeling at the moment but it's hard to say more for now."
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff admitted during the weekend that discussions with Bottas about a reserve driver role were progressing well.
"It's looking good," Wolff said when asked about a potential deal.
Rauno refrained from further comments, but Bottas himself provided some insight into his 2025 plans.
"I'll probably still see you here on site and hopefully I'll get to test as much as possible," Bottas said. "And then at some point, come back to race.
"It's a really good option. We'll see next week. It's a very likely option," he added.
Bottas's achievements during his time at Mercedes include finishing as runner-up in the drivers' championship twice and securing third place twice.
"Yes, I can be proud of this," Bottas remarked. "Everyone else can try to do better.
"I've been racing all my life and I always aimed for Formula 1. And quite a lot has been achieved here. This is not the optimal way to end, of course."
Regarding his immediate plans, Bottas shared a more relaxed goal: "In Finland, you jump into the sauna pretty quickly." body check tags ::
