Valtteri Bottas reveals FBI investigation after Cadillac car stolen during Miami GP

Valtteri Bottas revealed that his Cadillac rental car, provided by the Cadillac F1 team, was stolen from his Airbnb in Fort Lauderdale during the Miami Grand Prix weekend. The incident prompted an FBI investigation, as Bottas's paddock pass was inside the vehicle, potentially giving the thief access to the paddock.

Why it matters:

The theft highlights security vulnerabilities for F1 personnel staying in private accommodations during race weekends. While the car was recovered and the pass wasn't misused, the episode underscores the risks teams and drivers face when traveling to high-profile events in unfamiliar areas.

The details:

• Bottas was staying in a “nice area” of Fort Lauderdale with low crime rates, having moved from Miami for a quieter environment.
• On Friday evening, he parked the locked Cadillac in the driveway, with keys inside the house. The next morning, the car was gone.
• His personal assistant alerted him, and Bottas had to find alternative transport to the track. He realized his paddock pass was in the stolen car.
• The FBI and local police launched a full investigation. The car was found the next day dumped in a high-crime area, likely used for other crimes.
• Bottas joked that the thief “had all the opportunities” to enter the paddock but showed no interest in F1.

Between the lines:

The incident reveals an unexpected gap in security protocols: a paddock pass left in an unattended vehicle. While Bottas downplayed the risk with humor, it serves as a reminder to teams and drivers to secure sensitive credentials off-site.

What's next:

No charges have been announced, but the FBI investigation continues. Cadillac F1 quickly provided a replacement vehicle, and Bottas was able to complete the race weekend without further issues.