In a move that has shaken up the Formula 1 paddock, Sauber has revealed why it opted to bypass seasoned driver Valtteri Bottas in favor of rookie Gabriel Bortoleto for the 2025 season. Despite Bottas’ wealth of experience and the fact that he’d reached tentative terms with the team for a renewal, Sauber’s sights are set on a fresh, future-focused approach.
This week, the Hinwil-based team announced that Bortoleto, currently leading the Formula 2 standings in his debut season, will join Nico Hulkenberg in a new driver lineup. Sauber team boss Mattia Binotto shed light on the difficult choice, explaining that Sauber’s anticipated struggles in 2025 led the team to prioritize developing young talent in preparation for its forthcoming transition to Audi’s official F1 outfit in 2026.
“We know the next season will be challenging for us,” Binotto admitted. “It’s a long journey toward becoming Audi’s works team, and that transformation needs a driver who’s ready to grow with us.”
Binotto emphasized that his rapport with Bottas was strong, noting they had openly discussed the realities of Sauber’s immediate and long-term objectives.
“Valtteri and I have had a great relationship since I started here in August,” he said. “We discussed the journey ahead and the difficulties we may face. Ultimately, we mutually understood that bringing in a young driver was the best path for the future.”
Despite enduring a winless season, Bottas’ experience has been invaluable to the team as it struggled with a non-competitive car. Binotto praised the 10-time race winner as a “very strong candidate” to remain, recognizing his speed, fitness, and in-depth understanding of the team’s dynamics.
“Valtteri is a highly respected driver here and across the paddock,” Binotto stated. “Decisions like this are never easy, but sometimes you have to look forward and make the choice that aligns with a larger vision.”
As Sauber prepares for its final season before transitioning under the Audi banner, the team hopes Bortoleto’s youthful energy will inject new momentum into a rebuild season. While fans will miss Bottas, Sauber’s decision signals a bold strategy, with eyes firmly set on creating a winning force for 2026 and beyond.
