Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu to Depart Sauber F1 Team

Sauber has officially stated that both Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu will part ways with the team when the 2024 Formula 1 season concludes.

Sauber has announced that Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu will be departing from the team following the conclusion of the 2024 Formula 1 season.

On Wednesday morning, Sauber announced that both of their current drivers will be leaving the team before the start of the 2025 season.

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Nico Hulkenberg has secured a contract with Sauber for the 2025 season in anticipation of Audi's acquisition in 2026. Meanwhile, Gabriel Bortoleto, who currently leads the Formula 2 standings and is the reigning Formula 3 champion, is anticipated to fill the open position.

"Such circumstances are always challenging for everyone involved. However, following thorough and constructive conversations in recent weeks, we came to the understanding that the necessary conditions to jointly develop this project were not fulfilled," stated Bottas, who is departing Sauber after a three-year stint at Hinwil.

Over the past few years, my time with the team has been a remarkable adventure filled with personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. I am thankful for the shared moments and the confidence and encouragement I've received throughout. Although it's time to take a new path, I'll forever cherish the memories with this team and eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for all of us.

Mattia Binotto, the new head of Sauber/Audi, expressed his appreciation by stating, "We are sincerely thankful to Valtteri for his contributions over the last three years. His professionalism and extensive experience have been crucial in aiding the team's development."

Valtteri's commitment and method have been crucial during a significant period in our history, and the experiences from these years will remain with us for a long while. When evaluating our drivers for future seasons, Valtteri was undoubtedly a top contender. His determination often drove the car to exceed its performance capabilities.

A choice was necessary. Following open and productive talks, we collectively decided that the final terms couldn't be fulfilled, and thus, it was time to go our separate ways. Valtteri will always be welcome here in Hinwil.

Zhou, who started his Formula 1 career with the team in 2022, is leaving as well.

The Chinese racer announced that they plan to depart from the team when the season concludes, but emphasized their dedication to ending the season on a high note.

"I appreciate the team's decision to give me an opportunity in Formula One: it's a challenging sport for newcomers, yet the team has supported my development immensely over the past three years. The race in China earlier this season was definitely a standout moment, but there have been numerous experiences, both public and private, that I'll cherish from these past three years."

"I'm turning my attention to the next phase of my career, as I still have a lot of energy and determination to keep moving forward."

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McLaren's young driver Gabriel Bortoleto has been chosen to fill the open Sauber seat for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Leading the F2 championship, Bortoleto has claimed the last available spot on the Sauber F1 team for 2025.

Gabriel Bortoleto, a junior driver for McLaren, has claimed the last available position at Sauber, finalizing the team's Formula 1 roster for the 2025 season.

Bortoleto, who currently holds the title of Formula 3 champion and is leading in the Formula 2 standings, has been selected to take over from Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu. Their departures were officially announced on Wednesday morning.

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The Brazilian driver, who is 20 years old, will team up with Nico Hulkenberg at the Hinwil-based team for the next season, as they prepare for Audi's acquisition in 2026.

Bortoleto expressed great enthusiasm, stating that this project is among the most thrilling in the world of motorsport, and possibly in the entire realm of sports. He added that it is a genuine privilege to become part of a team that brings together the storied motorsport legacies of Sauber and Audi.

As more than just a participant, I aspire to advance with this exciting project and achieve the highest level in motorsport. I am extremely thankful for the team's trust in me and for the opportunity to collaborate with a seasoned driver like Nico.

Both initiatives have consistently demonstrated their ability to develop young talent effectively, and I am sure that by collaborating, we will create a successful narrative of our own.

Newly appointed team leader Mattia Binotto has chosen to prioritize youth over experience for the second driver position at the F1 team that will soon become Audi's official works team.

"Gabriel has shown his potential as a victorious driver in the junior leagues. We are thrilled to welcome him as part of the Sauber and Audi team," stated Binotto.

Alongside Gabriel, we are embarking on a path to achieve success, aiming to transform into a cohesive power that will define a new chapter for Audi in the world of motorsport. With Nico and Gabriel, we have the perfect blend of seasoned expertise and youthful energy, which puts us in a strong position looking ahead.

Bortoleto is set to leave McLaren and join Sauber, currently topping the F2 championship by 4.5 points ahead of Red Bull junior driver Isack Hadjar, with two rounds left in Qatar and Abu Dhabi.

He is set to become the first Brazilian to compete in Formula 1 since Felipe Massa, who drove for Ferrari and Williams, last raced in 2017.

This indicates that only one remaining spot needs to be occupied at Red Bull's affiliate team, RB, to finalize the lineup for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

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Valtteri Bottas is anticipated to rejoin the Mercedes F1 team in 2025 following his departure from Sauber.

Valtteri Bottas is expected to rejoin the Mercedes Formula 1 team in 2025 after leaving Sauber.

On Wednesday morning, the team that is set to become Audi's works team announced that Bottas and his current Sauber teammate, Zhou Guanyu, will depart from the Swiss team once the 2024 season concludes.

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Sauber has decided to bring on board Gabriel Bortoleto, who currently leads the Formula 2 standings, to finalize their driver roster for 2025. He will be joining forces with another recent addition, Nico Hulkenberg.

According to Lawrence Barretto, Bottas is anticipated to stay involved in the Formula 1 scene. The 10-time grand prix victor is projected to join Mercedes again, this time in a reserve position.

According to Autosport, Bottas has been engaged in talks with Mercedes for "a number of weeks."

Should an agreement be reached, the 35-year-old Finnish driver would step in for Mick Schumacher as Mercedes' reserve driver. In this role, he would serve as a backup for George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli in 2025, after Lewis Hamilton makes a high-profile move to Ferrari.

Before the Mexico City Grand Prix, Bottas mentioned to F1TV that he "would consider" going back to Mercedes, the team he raced for from 2017 to 2021.

"A situation of this nature is always challenging for everyone involved," Bottas remarked upon the announcement of his departure from Sauber. "However, following extensive and meaningful conversations over the recent weeks, we came to the conclusion that the circumstances necessary for developing this project collaboratively were not in place."

Over the last few years, being with the team has been an amazing experience, marked by personal development, obstacles, and memorable events. I deeply appreciate the shared experiences and the confidence and encouragement I have received throughout this journey.

"Even as I transition to new opportunities, I'll always have fond memories of this team, and I'm eager to see what lies ahead for all of us."

Lewis frequently goes to Grands Prix events globally for Crash.net. He often provides on-the-ground coverage, sharing stories about key figures in the sport.

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David Croft responds to Max Verstappen's criticism of the British press

Leading figures in the British F1 media address Max Verstappen's comment questioning the presence of British journalists.

David Croft, a commentator for Sky Sports F1, has expressed his displeasure with Max Verstappen's criticism of the British media during the Sao Paulo Grand Prix.

After an impressive recovery from starting in 17th position during a tumultuous and rain-drenched race at Interlagos, Verstappen, who is nearing the achievement of his fourth consecutive world championship, criticized the British press.

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Following recent critiques from ex-F1 drivers such as Damon Hill, Martin Brundle, and Johnny Herbert, the Red Bull star raised concerns about the absence of British journalists at the post-race FIA press conference in Brazil.

Verstappen remarked, "I have a brief inquiry. I value your presence, yet I notice the absence of any British media. Did they have to rush to the airport, or are they unaware of the press conference location?"

In response on X, the platform once known as Twitter, Croft expressed, “There are occasions when a story involves more depth than a simple sound bite or an opportunity to criticize individuals over perceived British bias.”

"Personally, since the post-race conference is exclusively for print media, I never go, regardless of who the winner is."

"Thursday's press conferences are unique as they cater to both broadcast and print journalists. This is to clarify for everyone's understanding."

"Journalists can access the quotes from this without any restrictions, allowing them to potentially pursue different stories, confident that they won't miss any statements made during the FIA press conference after the race."

Formula 1 host Will Buxton referred to Verstappen's remarks as a "playful jab following the race."

"Max's playful jab at the UK media for their absence after the race likely requires some explanation," he posted on X.

I haven't attended a post-race press conference in a long time because I'm usually broadcasting live. After a race, journalists for print media experience a busy period, conducting interviews with drivers and team bosses right in the paddock area.

During my time as a print journalist, I often had to decide between collecting quotes from the paddock and asking questions during the press conference, where a full transcript of the top three is always provided. Typically, spending time in the paddock proved to be more efficient when working against a deadline.

"If you're from the UK, seeing Lewis, Lando, and George among the top three might influence your decision to attend, but not necessarily all the time. Typically, it's only when there's a controversy requiring attention that you might choose to forgo finding exclusive quotes in favor of a complete transcription of the official session."

Lewis frequently travels globally to cover Grands Prix for Crash.net. By providing on-the-scene reports, Lewis shares the narratives of key figures in the racing world.

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Mick Schumacher faces rejection and is poised to spend another year away from the F1 spotlight. His hopes for a return have taken another hit.

Mick Schumacher's slim possibility of making a comeback to Formula 1 in 2025 has been eliminated.

According to reports, he was considered for the open position at Sauber, but the spot has now been secured by F2 star Gabriel Bortoleto.

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Sauber has announced that their current drivers, Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu, will leave the team when this season concludes. They have also signed McLaren's junior driver, Bortoleto.

Nico Hulkenberg, currently with Haas, had previously committed to joining Sauber. This move brings a German driver to the team, which is set to transform into Audi in 2026.

Audi, a leading German automobile manufacturer, might have chosen Schumacher, the offspring of a legendary figure in the country.

However, Schumacher has encountered yet another setback as his attempts to rejoin the F1 grid have been unsuccessful.

This season, he competed in the World Endurance Championship with Alpine, yet this did not secure him the open Formula 1 seat. Instead, the position was awarded to newcomer Jack Doohan for the 2025 season.

Despite being recommended by Toto Wolff, Williams passed over Schumacher when they urgently required a substitute for the struggling Logan Sargeant.

Williams opted for Franco Colapinto, who has made a significant impact in Formula 1.

Schumacher is on track to spend a third year in a row outside of Formula 1 by 2025.

At the close of 2022, Haas decided to let him go, with Guenther Steiner, the team's leader at the time, expressing concern over the high number of accidents he was involved in.

Haas quickly shifted their strategy from relying on rookie drivers to bringing in seasoned veterans, Nico Hulkenberg and Kevin Magnussen. This change, guided by Ayao Komatsu's leadership, has led to a turnaround in their performance this season.

For the last two years, Schumacher has served as a reserve driver for Mercedes, maintaining a strong connection with the company where his famous father concluded his Formula 1 career.

For ten years, James worked as a sports reporter at Sky Sports, where he reported on a wide range of events, including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1.

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Reason Revealed for Franco Colapinto's Missed Opportunity with Sauber F1

A significant factor has come to light explaining why Sauber chose to sign Gabriel Bortoleto instead of promising talent Franco Colapinto for their 2025 Formula 1 lineup.

An important factor has come to light regarding Sauber's decision to choose Gabriel Bortoleto instead of Williams standout Franco Colapinto for the 2025 F1 season.

After delivering numerous standout performances for Williams as a mid-season substitute for Logan Sargeant, who had not been meeting expectations, Colapinto emerged as a potential contender for a spot in the upcoming Audi works F1 team.

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On Wednesday, Sauber revealed that they have chosen Bortoleto, the Formula 3 champion and current leader in Formula 2 points, to join their team for the next season with Nico Hulkenberg.

As reported by Lawrence Barretto on F1.com, Colapinto's chances of signing with Sauber were "cut short" due to Williams being willing to approve only a temporary loan arrangement.

Sauber/Audi engaged in conversations with Williams regarding Colapinto, with team leader James Vowles making efforts to secure him a spot. They also initiated discussions with Bortoleto’s representatives, who are associated with Fernando Alonso’s A14 driver management agency, as well as with McLaren, according to Barretto.

"The team also took into account the interest expressed by Mercedes junior driver Mick Schumacher and thought about advancing their reserve driver Theo Pourchaire."

Sauber/Audi held a firm stance, insisting on acquiring a driver directly. They were not open to any loan agreements.

This quickly dashed Colapinto's aspirations, as Williams' team leader, James Vowles, was eager to retain him under a long-term contract with the team.

The choice for the new team leader, Mattia Binotto, was narrowed down between Bortoleto and the incumbent driver, Valtteri Bottas. It was reported that verbal agreements were made with both parties. However, Sauber eventually opted to prioritize youth over the familiarity of experience.

Before the Mexican Grand Prix, discussions focused primarily on two drivers: Bottas and Bortoleto, the report noted.

Sauber/Audi and Bottas' representatives swiftly came to an agreement, pending the final approval. Meanwhile, Sauber/Audi was also in discussions with Bortoleto and his team regarding a possible deal.

During the Brazilian weekend, while Bortoleto's team was present in the paddock at Interlagos, a deal was finalized, and it was this agreement that Sauber/Audi chose to implement.

"Earlier this week, specifics were finalized, as Bortoleto participated in a photo session on Tuesday before a multi-year contract was revealed on Wednesday."

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Headline: Suggestion for Red Bull to Consider Replacing Sergio Perez to Demonstrate Commitment

Johnny Herbert believes that Red Bull should consider finding a new driver to take Sergio Perez's place for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

According to Johnny Herbert, if Red Bull genuinely aims to compete for the constructors' championship, they should consider replacing Sergio Perez for the 2025 F1 season.

Perez is experiencing a challenging streak and hasn't managed to secure a position better than sixth place in the last 15 races. This has placed him in eighth position in the world championship standings. Meanwhile, his Red Bull teammate, Max Verstappen, has claimed eight wins and is close to securing the championship title.

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The Mexican driver confessed to having a "terrible season" and is still facing pressure to keep his spot for the upcoming year. His lackluster performance has contributed to Red Bull's drop from first to third place in the constructors' championship.

Former Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert believes that Red Bull should consider making a change before the start of the next season.

"It has often been mentioned that Checo's worth is tied to the sponsorship he secures. Is it necessary for them? I would be astonished if Red Bull truly required it," Herbert stated in an interview with SafestBettingSites.co.uk.

The team requires a driver who can compete effectively against Max. Considering how well Liam has driven since joining, it seems he has a good chance.

Yuki has performed admirably, and he arguably deserved a podium finish on Sunday. He is certainly a strong contender. His progress has left a significant impression on me.

Witnessing the current situation with Checo is quite distressing. His performance this season has deteriorated to a point where he struggles to find ease with the car, which speaks to the physical challenges he's facing. Additionally, there's the psychological impact of being consistently outperformed by Max, who remains significantly ahead. This combination creates a very challenging environment for him.

"He hasn't secured his spot for next season yet. If Red Bull is genuinely committed to winning the constructors' championship, they need a second driver who will contribute significantly. Liam or Yuki deserve an opportunity."

When questioned about whether the time to switch drivers was approaching, Red Bull's team leader Christian Horner commented in Brazil, "I believe that everything in life is a matter of perspective, and it’s important to consider the actual data."

"We're putting in a lot of effort with Checo, who had a new chassis for this weekend. I felt he performed well in the race yesterday, but things didn't go his way today."

Lewis frequently travels internationally to cover Grands Prix for Crash.net. He is often on-site to provide firsthand accounts, sharing the narratives of key figures within the sport.

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Christian Horner's staggering F1 salary disclosed following 11% pay increase

For the 2023 F1 season, Christian Horner received a salary boost of 11%.

It has come to light that Christian Horner is the highest-earning team principal in Formula 1.

As reported by The Times, Horner earns a staggering £8.92 million in salary.

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This ensures he is easily the best-compensated team leader in the 2024 Formula 1 lineup.

In comparison to the previous year, Horner's salary has increased by 11 percent, rising from 8.02 million.

The year 2024 has posed numerous challenges for Horner and the Red Bull team, both in their racing endeavors and beyond.

The beginning of their championship defense was overshadowed by Horner's off-field controversy, involving accusations made by a female staff member.

Claims of misconduct surfaced, capturing attention and becoming a major focus during the initial months of the season.

In recent times, Red Bull has faced challenges during races, with Max Verstappen securing victory in only one out of the last 10 competitions.

Red Bull is heading towards their lowest position in the F1 constructors' standings since 2019, likely ending the season in third place after McLaren and Ferrari.

In terms of finances, it has been disclosed that Horner made nearly £9 million in 2023.

The financial statements of Red Bull Technology Limited reveal information about their top-earning director, who is believed to be Horner.

According to reports from Red Bull Racing, their experienced consultant Helmut Marko made £7 million in 2023.

Horner is not considered the richest person in the F1 paddock.

Toto Wolff, who is a major competitor, earns around £6 million in salary and also holds a one-third ownership stake in Mercedes Benz.

This indicates that he has accumulated approximately £25 million through dividends.

According to reports, McLaren's CEO, Zak Brown, has an annual salary of £9 million, yet his total earnings amount to £26.4 million.

Connor, known for his keen insight into F1's disputes and narratives, is the core of our impartial journalism.

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Max Verstappen acknowledges the challenges faced as he approaches his fourth Formula 1 championship, stating, "This is a significant uplift for the team, as it has genuinely been a difficult journey."

Max Verstappen admitted that Red Bull has faced challenges during their stretch of 10 races without a victory, as he approaches the brink of securing his fourth F1 drivers' championship.

Max Verstappen showcased an exceptional performance at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix in Formula 1, clinching victory despite starting from 17th position on the grid and battling through rainy weather.

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The race posed a significant challenge to Verstappen's championship lead as Lando Norris began the event from the pole position.

The McLaren racer was initially leading but fell behind at the first turn, and a number of mistakes subsequently pushed him back to the sixth position.

Verstappen secured his first triumph since June at the Spanish Grand Prix, marking his longest stretch without a win since 2020.

During the FIA press conference, Verstappen discussed the challenges Red Bull has been facing lately.

"Certainly, that was significant," he acknowledged. "I had hoped to achieve victory a bit earlier. However, it has indeed been challenging for us."

"We constantly maintained our efforts. It wasn't clear to us why the competition was particularly quick during the race. I've been experimenting with various strategies to enhance the car's performance."

"Beginning from 17th position today, it seemed unlikely that we would secure another race victory. Therefore, this outcome is truly remarkable for us. It provides a significant morale boost for the team, as the journey has been challenging."

"However, a major advantage of the team is their ability to remain composed and focus on enhancing performance and bettering our current circumstances. I have faith. I am optimistic that in the final three races, we can contend once more, and particularly during the races, we will be more competitive."

Verstappen has the chance to secure his fourth Formula 1 drivers' championship at the upcoming race in Las Vegas.

To secure the championship, he just needs to place higher than Norris in the Vegas race.

He has the ability to secure the championship even if he places sixth in all of the upcoming races.

As the season approaches its last three races, Verstappen is focused on having "smooth competitions."

He stated, "Reflecting on it now, it was extremely significant because, in a sense, I anticipated losing points today."

"From this point forward, my goal is to have straightforward and fair races until the season concludes. I'm not focused on securing the championship title in Las Vegas or any other venue; my priority is simply to compete in clean races."

Connor, known for his keen insight into F1's controversies and narratives, is the core of our objective reporting.

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Johnny Herbert responds to Jos Verstappen amid ongoing controversy involving race officials. "Jos has never hesitated to express his views on the situation at Red Bull. But should he be doing that?"

Johnny Herbert has responded to a developing conflict with Jos Verstappen regarding the decisions made by stewards.

Ex-Formula 1 racer Herbert was among the four stewards in the United States and Mexico who issued penalties to Max Verstappen following his incidents with championship contender Lando Norris.

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Herbert expressed his opinion that the penalties imposed in Mexico are unlikely to deter Max Verstappen from forcing Lando Norris off the track again in the future.

Verstappen's father expressed his disapproval by stating, "In my opinion, a steward should avoid speaking to the media and focus solely on their duties."

Herbert has stood up for his entitlement to express his views.

In a conversation with SafestBettingSites.co.uk, he stated, "I've consistently maintained that during race weekends, I serve as Johnny Herbert the steward and professional, while at other times, I am Johnny Herbert the pundit, sharing my personal opinions."

"When serving as a steward, I refrain from sharing my personal views."

"People all have their own viewpoints. Martin Brundle expresses his, so why can't I share mine even if I'm not at the racetrack?"

"For half a century, the racetrack has been my life. If something happens there that I don't like, I won't hesitate to speak up."

"It's not only Max who gets criticized; I'll speak up about anyone if I believe it's justified."

"I see where Jos is coming from since it's his child. Is there any favoritism? Definitely not."

"I wasn't alone in believing that Max went too far in Mexico. Lando Norris and Zak Brown shared the same opinion."

"When I talk to people on a Monday or Tuesday, it's not related to my duties as a steward."

"Jos has consistently been vocal regarding developments within Red Bull."

"Is that what he is supposed to do? Everything seems quite alike. If you have a viewpoint and wish to express it, you are able to do so."

Max Verstappen faced increased attention for his bold driving tactics as he entered the F1 Sao Paulo Grand Prix last weekend, following penalties imposed on him during the prior two events.

He dismissed the critics and went on to achieve an impressive victory in Brazil, starting from 17th place on the grid in rainy weather.

He established a 62-point advantage over Norris in the drivers' championship standings, with three races remaining in the season.

For ten years, James worked as a sports journalist at Sky Sports, reporting on a wide range of events including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1 racing.

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Mercedes refutes speculation about Lewis Hamilton's early departure following vague radio communication in F1

Mercedes has responded to rumors suggesting that the Sao Paulo Grand Prix marked Lewis Hamilton's final appearance in Formula 1.

Mercedes has dismissed speculations suggesting that the F1 Sao Paulo Grand Prix might have been Lewis Hamilton's final race with the team, after he delivered an enigmatic message over the radio on Sunday.

The seven-time Formula 1 world titleholder experienced yet another disappointing weekend with Mercedes, concluding the race in Sao Paulo in a modest 10th position.

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Hamilton faced difficulties with the performance of his W15 and was puzzled by his slow speed during single-lap runs.

In a surprising turn of events, Hamilton had difficulty performing in the rain, despite having excelled in such conditions throughout his career.

Upon finishing in 10th place, Hamilton shared an unusual statement via team radio.

Over the team radio in Brazil, Hamilton expressed that the weekend had been a complete catastrophe.

"The car's performance was at its lowest point. I appreciate everyone's efforts and commend the pit-stop team for their excellent work."

"If this ends up being my final performance, it's unfortunate it wasn't spectacular, but I appreciate you."

Hamilton's use of the phrase "if this is the last time" sparked rumors that the race in Brazil might be his final appearance with the team.

Following the race, Hamilton joked about his eagerness to take a vacation.

Mercedes has informed Sky that Hamilton is assured to participate in the last three races in Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi.

After the race at the Yas Marina Circuit, Hamilton will leave the team and is set to join Ferrari in 2025.

The 39-year-old driver is not anticipated to participate in the post-season test with Ferrari on the track.

It seems improbable that Hamilton will drive a Ferrari vehicle before 2025. If he does, it might be an older model at the team's Fiorano circuit.

Connor is at the core of our objective reporting, keenly observing the controversies and narratives within F1.

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Audi is expected to make a decision soon, which could negatively impact Valtteri Bottas. The Finnish driver faces the possibility of not securing a spot in the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Valtteri Bottas might be nearing the end of his Formula 1 career.

Sauber, which is slated to transition to Audi in 2026, is expected to announce its crucial decision regarding the drivers for the upcoming season.

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According to F1-Insider, it is expected that Gabriel Bortleto will soon receive approval.

As a result, current driver Bottas will no longer have a seat.

Rumors surrounding Bortleto gained momentum during the F1 Sao Paulo Grand Prix, which took place over the weekend.

The driver from Brazil is presently at the top of the Formula 2 standings, although he

McLaren's team boss, Andrea Stella, emphasized that they wouldn't hinder his progress into Formula 1, slightly paving the way for a potential opportunity with Sauber.

Sauber has secured Nico Hulkenberg from Haas for the 2025 season.

Bottas seems to be observing the situation from a distance, not directly involved.

"When there isn't any confirmation, questions arise," he mentioned while in Brazil.

"The situation remains unchanged this weekend. I'm still on hold, waiting for them to make the next move."

"I believe I performed well in Mexico, and right now, I can't push this car any further to demonstrate my abilities. All I can do is be patient."

"I’m anticipating updates from the team and have consistently expressed my desire to join the Audi project. At the moment, I am still awaiting further information, and that's the current situation."

"In this sport, there's always uncertainty about what's going on behind the scenes."

"Politics often play a significant role when dealing with a large corporation and a substantial business."

"There are numerous factors that influence choices like the selection of drivers. At this point, I have to rely on the assurances of Audi's head, Mattia Binotto, and wait to see what unfolds."

At 35 years old, Bottas has secured 10 grand prix victories during his time with Mercedes in Formula 1.

However, his 12-year career in Formula 1 appears to be nearing its conclusion.

Bottas, along with his teammate Guanyu Zhou and former Williams racer Logan Sargeant, are the only competitors this season who have not managed to earn any points.

For ten years, James worked as a sports journalist at Sky Sports, where he reported on various subjects including American sports, soccer, and Formula 1 racing.

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