Audi’s New Direction: Bottas Faces Uncertainty as Binotto Eyes Potential Replacements

Valtteri Bottas Faces Uncertainty as Audi's New Chief Mentions Possible Replacements

Mattia Binotto Reveals Consideration of Two Drivers, Yet to Make a Decision

Mattia Binotto has identified a pair of candidates who could take over Valtteri Bottas's seat at Sauber.

Only two spots remain open in the 2025 Formula 1 driver roster – one with Sauber and another with Red Bull Racing.

Bottas and his team member, Zhou Guanyu, are aware they're in contention for a single racing spot, next to the new addition, Nico Hulkenberg

Binotto, previously at the helm of Ferrari, has transitioned to a high-level position with Audi, set to operate under the Sauber banner until 2026, acknowledges that the team is exploring options for potential new drivers.

F2 competitor Gabriel Bortoleto and Sauber backup Theo Pourchaire, who clinched the 2023 F2 title, are the individuals being discussed.

"Theo currently serves as our backup driver and has already become a member of our team," stated Binotto.

"Undoubtedly, he's included in our roster."

Gabriel is excelling in Formula 2, demonstrating significant prowess and talent.

"Indeed, we are paying attention to his actions along with those of several others. I don't view him as the sole individual who is capturing our interest."

"Thus, the roster is filled with numerous individuals – each possessing significant potential, expertise, and experience."

"Once more, it comes down to evaluating our priorities for the immediate, intermediate, and distant future."

"A transparent, defined strategy, which at this moment, I truly lack a response for."

Binotto was seen engaged in an intense conversation with Bortoletto in the Monza racing area.

He openly acknowledges the uncertain future of Bottas and Zhou with a hint of apprehension.

EXCLUSIVE: In an exclusive reveal, Zhou Guanyu has expressed that he would be 'okay' with Valtteri Bottas taking his place in F1. For more details, visit: https://t.co/KgwSWDiyTj — Crash.net – Formula 1 (@CRASH_NET_F1) August 31, 2024

Experienced racer Bottas has laid down a crucial condition for Sauber in case they decide to extend his contract.

"He expressed his interest solely in contracts that span multiple years," he stated.

"For myself, undertaking only a single year, I'm aware that the following year may still present challenges for my career."

Zhou, in an exclusive interview with Crash.net, expressed, "Competing for a position alongside Valtteri, no matter which of us secures it, I'll be more than satisfied even if I don't get the seat and he does.

"Certainly, there's a question mark over why some drivers have secured their spots for the upcoming season."

"If it comes down to just one seat between him and me, I'm prepared to compete for it. However, if he ends up getting it, I won't be overly upset."

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