Race of Champions must do without the absent Bottas

Valtteri Bottas will not be competing in the Race of Champions at all, reports The Race. The Finnish driver has announced that he has other obligations and therefore cannot participate in the event that takes place on February 5 and 6.

The event is back on the calendar for the first time since 2019, as it could not take place the last two years due to the coronavirus. Whereas in 2019 it took place in Mexico, this time the drivers will be hosted in Sweden. On an ice track, the drivers will have the great challenge of showing off their driving skills to the outside world.

Every year several well-known drivers take part in the event, as is the case this season. In addition to Bottas, Formula 1 drivers Sebastian Vettel and Mick Schumacher are also on the list. Indy 500 winner Helio Castroneves is also among the participants. So the organization can cross Bottas off the list again.

It is unknown what the exact reason for Bottas' absence is. However, with Emma Kimilainen, his country has a good replacement on the hook. She will compete alongside Mika Hakkinen for Team Finland. She will also compete in the individual duel on Sunday.