Formula 1 superstar Valtteri Bottas set to fight for Cycling championship in Belgium amid ongoing break

Valtteri Bottas has already established a remarkable career in Formula 1, securing 10 Grand Prix victories, with his most recent win at the 2021 Turkish Grand Prix. However, the Finnish driver is venturing into a new arena – competitive gravel cycling. This weekend, Bottas will compete in the UCI Gravel World Championships in Belgium, marking a significant step in his ever-growing passion for cycling.

Bottas, a racing enthusiast on and off the tarmac, has developed a strong affinity for the sport over the years. His journey to the world championships began when he qualified for the prestigious event by competing in South Africa's Swartberg 100, a challenging gravel race in April 2024. 

His sixth-place finish in his age group narrowly earned him the final qualifying spot, making his dream of competing in Belgium a reality. Despite the small field of 24 starters in his category, Bottas' achievement stands as a testament to his determination and skill on two wheels.

What is the UCI Gravel World Championships?

Belgium’s Flanders region, known for its deep cycling heritage, will provide Bottas and his fellow competitors with a tough and unpredictable course. Spanning 182 kilometres, the race will test the endurance, tactical intelligence, and bike-handling skills of even the most seasoned cyclists.

Flanders is famous for its cobbled roads, rolling hills, and passionate fanbase, making it a haven for cycling enthusiasts. For Bottas, the raw and chaotic nature of gravel racing presents a thrilling contrast to the structured circuits of Formula 1.

Despite being known for his motorsport achievements, Bottas’ dedication to cycling goes beyond the competitive element. He is the co-founder of FNLD GRVL, a popular gravel cycling event held in his native Finland, which he organizes alongside his partner, professional cyclist Tiffany Cromwell. FNLD GRVL has attracted a growing community of gravel racers and has helped cement Bottas' reputation as a legitimate competitor in the cycling world.

As Bottas trades his F1 car for a gravel bike this weekend, the challenge ahead may be daunting, but his passion and commitment suggest that he’s ready to conquer yet another racing discipline. Whether he stands on the podium or not, Bottas’ involvement in the UCI Gravel World Championships highlights his versatile racing spirit, proving that his competitive fire extends far beyond the world of Formula 1.