Stake F1 Team driver Valtteri Bottas said past conflicts would not hinder the highly-speculated but unconfirmed transfer of reigning world champion Max Verstappen from Red Bull Racing to Mercedes.

Verstappen and Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton competed for the Drivers' championship during the 2021 F1 season, which is widely regarded as one of the greatest seasons ever.

"I don't think so because in the end, it's racing, it is tough competition. That's F1, that's normal. There are always rivalries but I don't think he has burned any bridges anywhere and I think any team would like him," the ten-time Grand Prix winner said.

Bottas drove for Mercedes for five seasons from 2017 to 2021, contributing to the team's success by helping them secure the World Constructors' title in each of his seasons with them.

Throughout 2021, there was so much tension between the two sides, extending even to their team principals, Christian Horner and Toto Wolff.

Max Verstappen is loyal to one Red Bull official

Meanwhile, Verstappen is the subject of numerous rumors linking him to a potential transfer to Mercedes. This comes amid an internal rift within Red Bull involving team principal Christian Horner and Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko.

The three-time World Champion hinted that if Marko were to depart from the team, it could cast doubt on his future with the Milton Keynes-based outfit.

The 26-year-old feels deeply grateful for Marko because of the significant support he provided during his junior career.