After three seasons with Sauber, Valtteri Bottas will part ways with the team at the end of the 2024 Formula 1 season, marking the end of a chapter filled with challenges, growth, and moments of brilliance. The team, which will rebrand as Audi in 2026, has opted for a fresh lineup, bringing in Gabriel Bortoleto to partner Nico Hulkenberg, signaling a major shake-up in its roster.
This decision also coincides with the departure of Zhou Guanyu, leaving Sauber with a completely new look compared to 2022, when Bottas and Zhou joined under the leadership of Fred Vasseur.
“A Solid Tenure at Sauber Amid Limited Resources”
Bottas joined Sauber in 2022 after leaving Mercedes, where he played a pivotal role in their five consecutive Constructors’ Championships. Despite moving to a midfield team with limited resources, the Finnish driver consistently delivered strong performances, scoring 59 points compared to Zhou’s 12 during their time together.
However, throughout 2024, Bottas’ future became uncertain, with the team linked to other drivers, including Carlos Sainz, Mick Schumacher, and Theo Pourchaire. The final decision to bring in the talented Gabriel Bortoleto ahead of the Audi rebranding reflects the team’s focus on building for the future.
“A situation like this is never easy for anyone,” Bottas shared on social media. “But after all the good and in-depth discussions we had, we realized that the conditions to grow this project together were not met.”
Bottas expressed gratitude for his time with the team, calling it an “incredible journey” while acknowledging it was time to move on.
“What’s Next for Valtteri Bottas?”
While Bottas steps away from a full-time seat, rumors are already swirling about his next move. Mercedes has dropped cryptic hints on social media, suggesting a potential reunion with the team where Bottas helped secure five Constructors’ Championships alongside Lewis Hamilton from 2017-2021.
As a reserve and development driver, Bottas could provide invaluable experience and technical insight for George Russell and the 18-year-old rising star Kimi Antonelli, who is poised to make his mark at Mercedes. This role could keep Bottas closely connected to the sport while offering him a chance to mentor the next generation of drivers.
“A Legacy of Consistency and Teamwork”
Bottas leaves Formula 1, at least temporarily, with an impressive record:
- 10 Grand Prix wins
- 20 pole positions
- 67 podium finishes
- 1,797 career points
His career, which began with Williams in 2013, saw him rise to prominence at Mercedes, where he played a crucial supporting role in their dominance of the turbo-hybrid era.
“A New Era for Sauber/Audi”
For Sauber, the arrival of Gabriel Bortoleto signals a bold new direction. As Audi ramps up its preparations for its 2026 entry, the team is banking on young talent and proven experience in Hulkenberg to lay the groundwork for future success.
“The Road Ahead for Bottas”
Though Bottas is stepping away from a race seat, his story in F1 may not be over. Whether he transitions into a key developmental role at Mercedes or returns to racing in the future, the 35-year-old remains one of the most respected figures in the paddock. As the dust settles on his time at Sauber, the possibility of a Silver Arrows reunion keeps fans intrigued about what’s next for the Finnish star.