Jun.5 (GMM) Valtteri Bottas has dismissed rumours suggesting Cadillac is already considering replacing him, insisting the speculation is nothing more than a bid for “headlines and clicks”.
The Finn arrived in Monaco under pressure after reports emerged in Montreal claiming the new American team could even consider a mid-season driver change amid Bottas’ struggles compared to teammate Sergio Perez.
Cadillac team boss Graeme Lowdon has already firmly denied the claims, and now Bottas has done the same. “It’s part of the sport,” said the 36-year-old.
“It’s not the first time I’ve had to deal with these kinds of rumours. It’s just a shame that someone just makes up complete nonsense, but that’s normal in this sport.”
The former Mercedes driver said he has no concerns about his position within the team. “I know my situation and the team knows it,” Bottas explained.
“They are 100 percent behind me, so that’s why I’m not too worried about it.”
Asked why such stories emerge, Bottas did not hesitate. “Headlines and clicks,” he said.
“That’s my theory.”
While Perez has generally had the clear upper hand so far in Cadillac’s debut season, Bottas insists there are technical reasons behind the performance gap.
“We have seen a problem in the power source, but also in the construction of the car,” he revealed.
“I’m confident and I think we now understand what went wrong.”
Perez, meanwhile, believes his strong form this year is proving that his difficult final months at Red Bull were not a true reflection of his abilities.
“Obviously, if you look at my last six months at Red Bull, you wouldn’t necessarily think I was one of the best drivers in the world,” the Mexican told France’s Auto Hebdo.
“But when you understand the circumstances I was in at that time, and when people who know about performance look at the level I’m demonstrating with my team, you realise that I’m one of the best.”
Perez said returning to a more competitive level has restored his confidence.
“The way I struggled during my last season at Red Bull, it really damages your confidence,” he admitted.
“When I got into the Ferrari and was up to speed after barely 10 laps, without having driven for a while, I thought: ‘That’s it.'”
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES