As Valtteri Bottas looks ahead to life after Formula 1, he has already laid the foundation for his future. Over the past few years, he has actively pursued off-track ventures, particularly in the alcohol business. However, Bottas believes his entrepreneurial journey might never have taken off had he remained with Mercedes instead of moving to Sauber.
A Passion for Spirits: Oath Gin and Ihana Wine
Bottas, alongside his partner, professional cyclist Tiffany Cromwell, has established himself in the spirits industry. He owns a gin distillery in Australia under the brand name Oath Gin, while also managing Ihana Wine, which produces approximately 5,000 bottles annually.
His decision to explore this business was facilitated by his switch to Sauber in 2022. Unlike Mercedes, Sauber—being a smaller, independent team—had fewer restrictions on its drivers’ personal ventures.
Why Mercedes Would Have Rejected Bottas' Business
Mercedes, a key part of the Daimler Group, has a strict corporate policy regarding brand alignment. Since alcohol does not align with their global image, Bottas believes his liquor business would have been an issue had he remained with the team.
“There’s always some kind of flexibility, but yeah, some things are just a no-go with big companies,” Bottas shared during an appearance on The Howie Games podcast.
More Freedom at Sauber
Bottas explained that his move to Sauber gave him more personal and professional freedom.
“It’s [Sauber] not a car manufacturer. So, I think obviously with certain things, much more freedom. So I could actually set up the gin company with my girlfriend, which I could not have before.”
Bottas Returns to Mercedes—Will His Business Be a Problem?
After parting ways with Sauber at the end of the 2024 season, Bottas has rejoined Mercedes, this time as a reserve driver. While his role will also involve ambassadorial duties, he made sure to clarify his business commitments before signing.
“Everyone at Mercedes, they’ve got to know me now. I’ve explained, okay, I’ve got this and this and this. What can I promote? What I can’t? What are the guidelines? And we’re on the same page,” he revealed.
Bottas' Mullet—A New Look That Mercedes Now Accepts
Apart from his business ventures, Bottas has also embraced lifestyle changes, one of the most visible being his Aussie mullet hairstyle. Back in his previous Mercedes stint (2017–2021), he maintained a clean-cut look. But after moving to Sauber, he adopted the mullet—a style that has since become a fan favorite, especially among Australian F1 fans.
Interestingly, Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff is fully supportive of Bottas' new look.
“He did say, ‘You can keep your mullet.’ And he said, ‘I actually kind of like it,’” Bottas recalled.
Australia’s Influence on Bottas
Bottas credits Australia for shaping his personality and confidence. He has frequently referred to the country as his "second home", spending much of his off-season there with Cromwell. He also believes the relaxed lifestyle has helped him break out of his reserved nature.
With the 2025 F1 season opener in Melbourne, Bottas will be back in the paddock, this time in Mercedes colors—but with more personal freedom than ever before.