Bottas Nearly Called Up in Baku as Wolff Praise Russell and Antonelli

Sports

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff revealed that Valtteri Bottas was almost drafted in to race at the Azerbaijan GP after George Russell fell ill and praised both Russell’s grit and rookie Kimi Antonelli for strong performances on a demanding weekend.

Mercedes faced a tense weekend in Baku when George Russell was struck by flu, putting his participation in doubt. Team principal Toto Wolff later revealed it was “touch and go” whether Bottas, the team’s reserve driver, would need to step in. Bottas, who is set to return full-time with Cadillac next season, was prepared to race if Russell was unable to continue.

Despite the illness, Russell pushed through and delivered an outstanding performance, qualifying well and finishing P2. Wolff praised him for maintaining focus and composure, noting he “did a one and a half hour race here in Baku, not putting a single foot wrong on both tyres.”

Russell missed media duties on Friday due to the flu, but he described the street circuit as “maybe one of the easiest” physically, showing his determination to compete despite feeling unwell. Wolff acknowledged Russell’s grit and credited the team’s quick contingency planning, which included having Bottas ready as a potential substitute.

Meanwhile, young Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli impressed with a strong performance, bouncing back after a challenging few races. Wolff highlighted his growth, saying it was “something to continue to build on and consolidate.” The results helped Mercedes secure valuable points in the Constructors’ Championship, staying competitive against Ferrari and Red Bull.

Valtteri Bottas was not required as George Russell rallied to finish a superb second in the Azerbaijan GP

While Bottas didn’t race this time, his near call up underscores Mercedes’ depth and preparedness. For Russell, the Baku GP was a testament to resilience, focus, and the ability to perform even under difficult circumstances a weekend the team will remember for both the drama and the skill on display.