Sauber’s 2025 Driver Dilemma: Bottas in the Balance as Binotto Unveils Selection Criteria

Sauber Unveils Considerations for Choosing 2025 Driver Roster

Is Sauber set to support Valtteri Bottas, or will they explore other talents?

Mattia Binotto has outlined the qualifications for Sauber's driver in 2025, unveiling the contenders under consideration.

Just two spots are left to fill for the 2025 Formula 1 roster, with one spot open at both Sauber and Red Bull Racing.

Sauber has secured Nico Hulkenberg from Haas and is contemplating retaining either Valtteri Bottas or Zhou Guanyu, or alternatively, recruiting a newcomer.

Discussions are reported to have taken place regarding Gabriel Bortoleto, the Formula 2 championship hopeful, with McLaren, according to F1.com.

The report suggests that discussions were likely held with Ferrari regarding Robert Shwartzman.

Sauber gave Shwartzman a chance to drive in the first practice session in Zandvoort, adhering to the regulations for young drivers.

Zane Maloney and Theo Pourchaire are also potential choices from Sauber’s own training program.

However, there's a silver lining for seasoned F1 driver Bottas, who faces the possibility of his career being cut short.

According to reports from F1.com, insiders suggest the team is favoring experience, with Bottas likely to be chosen.

Selection Requirements for Sauber Driver

A roster of potential drivers was compiled prior to the arrival of former Ferrari team leader Binotto, who joined as the new Chief Operating and Chief Technical Officer.

Binotto is set to manage the transformation into Audi by 2026, coinciding with the introduction of the new F1 regulations.

"He conveyed to F1.com that their vision extends beyond 2025 when discussing his selection of drivers."

"Therefore, in evaluating the option, we must consider the optimal path forward, bearing in mind our future objectives."

"Valtteri has been performing admirably, and indeed, I've engaged in a few conversations with him already. He's made a positive initial impact, yet it's important to note that there are numerous drivers under consideration. As Audi, it's critical for us to carefully evaluate our options to determine the optimal choice. We aim to reach a decision in the near future."

Binotto explained his standards, stating, "Ultimately, the decision involves making trade-offs."

"In an ideal scenario, you would want a newcomer who possesses both immense talent and extensive experience, but since that's not feasible, you must make a choice that balances the needs and demands."

"However, I believe that ultimately, the choice isn't that hard. We just have to be completely confident in our actions. You must stand behind your decision."

Maintaining a good relationship with the driver is crucial, not only because it involves driving, but it also encompasses collaboration, guiding, and backing a project together.

"Being a driver isn't solely about being encapsulated in a single-seat cockpit and navigating the circuit; it equally involves the responsibilities at the factory and backing the team."

Bottas has made it clear that he is only interested in signing a contract that spans multiple years, emphasizing that a single-year agreement does not appeal to him.

This year, Sauber stands alone as the only Formula 1 team yet to earn any points.

Bottas and Zhou find themselves at the bottom of the drivers' rankings, each having not scored a single point.

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