The Sauber team, soon to be rebranded as Audi, has struggled throughout the 2024 F1 season, failing to score a single point. This disappointing run urged action, and management decided to axe both the current drivers. Earlier, the team signed Nico Hulkenberg as the replacement of Zhou Guanyu. Now, the team officials have confirmed Valtteri Bottas will leave the setup in 2025.
The ten-time race winner has been a part of Mercedes. The Finnish F1 racer was Lewis Hamilton’s teammate before being replaced by George Russell. Thus, rumors suggest he might reunite with the German Marque in the upcoming season. With George Russell and Kimi Antonelli confirmed for the upcoming season, will the Silver Arrows consider Valtteri Bottas for the reserve driver role?
Sauber Axes Valtteri Bottas And Zhou Guanyu, Replacement Announced
Sauber has decided to sign Formula 2 points leader Gabriel Bortoleto to complete their driver lineup for 2025 alongside Nico Hulkenberg. As for Valtteri Bottas, he is expected to remain in the Formula 1 paddock, with reports suggesting that the 10-time Grand Prix winner could return to Mercedes in a reserve driver role. According to Lawrence Barretto, Bottas has been in discussions with Mercedes for several weeks, and if a deal is reached, he will replace Mick Schumacher as the team’s reserve driver in 2025. Bottas would be a backup to George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli, especially after Lewis Hamilton’s much-discussed move to Ferrari.
Ahead of the Mexico City Grand Prix, Bottas spoke about the end of his time with Sauber. He admitted that it had not been an easy decision, but after several in-depth discussions, it became clear that the conditions for continued growth with the team were no longer met. Bottas reflected on his time with Sauber, describing it as an incredible journey filled with growth, challenges, and unforgettable moments. Despite his departure, he expressed gratitude for the trust and support he received throughout his tenure with the team. Bottas concluded by saying that while it was time to move on, he would always carry a part of the team with him and looked forward to seeing what the future held for both parties.
Valtteri Bottas’s Sauber Exit A ‘Mutual Decision’
Mattia Binotto, who took the helm of the Sauber/Audi project earlier this year, explained that the decision to part ways with Valtteri Bottas was mutual. Binotto expressed deep gratitude for Bottas’ contributions over the past three years, recognizing his professionalism and invaluable support as the team worked through a crucial phase in its development. He emphasized that Bottas’ experience and dedication were vital to the team’s growth and that his efforts had a lasting impact on Sauber’s progress.
In evaluating their driver lineup for the future, Binotto acknowledged that Bottas had been a key candidate, particularly for his fighting spirit and ability to push the car beyond its limits. However, after thorough and constructive discussions, both parties agreed that the conditions for continuing their partnership could not be met. Binotto concluded by reaffirming that Bottas would always have a place on the team, with an open door waiting for him in Hinwil, marking the end of their collaboration on a positive note.
