Cadillac has confirmed that Valtteri Bottas will be available to drive at the Mexican Grand Prix after illness forced him to miss Thursday's media activities. Meanwhile, Mercedes has yet to provide a definitive update on Kimi Antonelli's participation in the opening practice session.

Bottas cleared to return after illness in Mexico

Bottas was absent from Thursday's media day at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodríguez after feeling unwell. Cadillac decided to give the Finnish driver a day of rest to help his recovery ahead of the race weekend.

The American team initially stressed that the decision was precautionary and that his participation in the remainder of the weekend was not expected to be affected. Cadillac has now confirmed that Bottas is fit to return to the cockpit, removing concerns over his availability for the Mexican Grand Prix.

However, the Finn is not scheduled to take part in FP1, with Colton Herta already confirmed to drive his car during the opening session. Bottas is therefore expected to resume his regular duties in FP2.

Photo: Race Pictures

Mercedes still awaiting Antonelli decision

Antonelli also missed Thursday's media activities after Mercedes confirmed that the Italian driver was recovering from a viral illness. The 20-year-old was excused from his mandatory media commitments by the FIA to allow him additional time to rest.

Mercedes initially expressed confidence that Antonelli would return on Friday, although a definitive confirmation regarding his participation in FP1 is still awaited.

The timing is particularly significant for the championship leader, who arrives in Mexico with the opportunity to secure his maiden Formula 1 world title.

Antonelli holds a 123-point advantage over teammate George Russell following his victory at the United States Grand Prix. A ninth-place finish on Sunday would be enough to crown him the youngest world champion in Formula 1 history, regardless of Russell's result.