Uncertainty Looms for Valtteri Bottas as Audi Boss Mattia Binotto Eyes New Talent for Sauber’s 2025 F1 Line-up

Valtteri Bottas on edge as Audi's new chief considers two possible successors

Mattia Binotto acknowledges interest in a pair of drivers, yet no final decision has been made

Mattia Binotto has identified two possible candidates to take over Valtteri Bottas's position at Sauber.

Only two positions remain open in the 2025 F1 driver roster – one with Sauber and another with Red Bull.

Valtteri Bottas and his teammate Zhou Guanyu are aware that they are vying for a single spot, with newcomer Nico Hulkenberg joining the competition.

Binotto, previously the team principal at Ferrari and now occupying a high-level position at Audi (which will operate as Sauber until 2026), acknowledges that the team is considering potential new drivers.

The individuals being discussed are F2 driver Gabriel Bortoleto and Sauber reserve Theo Pourchaire, who is also the 2023 F2 champion.

"Theo is currently our backup driver and is already an integral member of the team," stated Binotto.

“It’s certain that he is included on our list.”

"Gabriel is excelling in F2, demonstrating remarkable talent."

"Of course, we're observing his actions, just as we are with many others. I don't believe he's the sole individual we're concentrating on."

"There are numerous individuals on the list, each with significant potential, extensive knowledge, and considerable experience."

"Once more, it's essential to evaluate what holds the greatest significance for us in the immediate future, the near future, and the distant future."

"A definite plan, which at this moment I am unable to provide an answer for."

Binotto was seen having an intense conversation with Bortoletto in the Monza paddock.

His statement is an anxious acknowledgment regarding the upcoming plans for Bottas and Zhou.

EXCLUSIVE: Zhou Guanyu is willing to concede his F1 seat to Valtteri Bottas https://t.co/KgwSWDiyTj pic.twitter.com/R7xHMJ2xIA — Crash.net – Formula 1 (@CRASH_NET_F1) August 31, 2024

EXCLUSIVE: Zhou Guanyu is willing to concede his F1 seat to Valtteri Bottas https://t.co/KgwSWDiyTj pic.twitter.com/R7xHMJ2xIA

Experienced racer Bottas has specified a key condition should Sauber decide to present him with a contract extension.

He stated that he was solely looking for a contract spanning multiple years.

“Since I’ve only completed one year, I understand that my career likely won’t get easier next year.”

Zhou, in an exclusive interview with Crash.net, stated: "I am perfectly content if I end up losing my seat to Valtteri in the competition for it."

"Naturally, there are a few drivers whose seats for the upcoming year might be questionable."

"But if it's down to just one spot between him and me, I'll compete for it. However, if he gets it, I won't be too upset."

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