Valtteri Bottas, the Finnish driver from Sauber, expressed that he is open to the possibility of extending his contract with the team as they prepare for Audi’s entry into Formula 1. This would secure his future in the sport until 2025.
The recent decision by Sauber to hire Nico Hulkenberg for multiple seasons means that either Bottas or his teammate Zhou Guanyu will have to leave the team at the end of this year. However, there are rumors that Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz, who is leaving, is being considered as the top candidate for the vacancy, and he is currently in negotiations with Sauber and Williams.
Bottas, who has also been in discussions with his former team Williams, revealed that he would be willing to stay at Sauber if the opportunity arises. Despite the team’s inclination towards a new lineup of drivers for the next season, Bottas understands the need to consider other options and not rely solely on one team.
When asked about the uncertain situation at Sauber as they prepare for the transition to Audi in 2026, Bottas acknowledged that the team is seeking significant changes, including the formation of drivers. He feels that while Sauber is still an option for him, he cannot wait indefinitely and wants to expedite the decision-making process.
Bottas mentioned that he has personally been assured of his involvement in the project over the past year, but there has been a recent lack of communication. Therefore, he feels the need to assess the situation and act accordingly.
Despite the ongoing developments in the driver market, Bottas is calm about his future and firmly believes that he will continue competing in Formula 1 in 2025.
“I am confident that I will secure a place,” Bottas said. “However, in this sport, nothing is certain until the contract is signed. So, I can’t say it’s guaranteed 100%.”
“But based on the current situation, I am not worried. However, the next week or two will certainly be interesting.”
“Of course, it is much more reassuring when you know what’s going on. But at the same time, there is a certain excitement and a sense of the unknown.”
“There might be something new and exciting on the horizon. That’s quite good. I just have to accept and adapt to the situation.”
Meanwhile, former world champion Jacques Villeneuve suggested that Bottas should return to Mercedes and replace his former teammate Lewis Hamilton for a single season.
However, it seems that Mercedes, the team for which Bottas raced from 2017 to 2021, is inclined to promote 17-year-old driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli to be George Russell’s partner in 2025.
“I believe Bottas will join Mercedes,” speculated Villeneuve. “They need a driver for one year. So, who better than someone who already knows the team, has experience, and can pave the way for Antonelli?”
“And then Toto Wolff will have to negotiate with another team to secure a place for Antonelli for one year.”
