In a decisive shift towards youth, Sauber has confirmed that 10-time Grand Prix winner Valtteri Bottas will not return to the grid in 2025, with Formula 2 frontrunner and McLaren junior Gabriel Bortoleto set to take his place alongside Nico Hulkenberg. The team’s decision reflects a broader strategy as it prepares to transition into Audi’s works Formula 1 squad by 2026, signaling a new era for Sauber.
After months of negotiations, Bottas had been ready to re-sign with Sauber, but new team principal Mattia Binotto ultimately opted for the 20-year-old Bortoleto over Bottas’s experience. The decision wasn’t made lightly; Binotto weighed the benefits of the Finnish driver’s years of experience against the opportunity to bring fresh energy into the team with a promising talent like Bortoleto.
Bortoleto’s upcoming debut is made possible with McLaren’s support; the Woking team, already committed to long-term contracts with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, did not block Bortoleto’s release to Sauber. As a result, the young Brazilian now has a direct path to the F1 grid as Sauber commits to a new approach for 2025 and beyond.
For Bottas, the news ends a consistent F1 presence that began with his 2013 debut for Williams and includes a five-season tenure with Mercedes, where he secured 10 victories. Bottas acknowledged the outcome with grace, expressing appreciation for his time at Sauber.
“A situation like this is never easy,” Bottas shared. “But after our in-depth discussions, it was clear the project’s future wasn’t aligned. I’ve been fortunate to share so much growth, challenge, and camaraderie with this team, and I’m grateful for that.”
Bottas has also kept communication open with his former Mercedes team, exploring a potential role as a reserve driver should a full-time opportunity arise. The Finn remains optimistic about his F1 future, stating he’s “not ready to step back from the sport.”
Meanwhile, Zhou Guanyu, who spent three seasons with Sauber, acknowledged that while he wasn’t seriously in the running for a 2025 seat, his time with the team allowed him to grow substantially.
“I am grateful for the opportunity Sauber gave me to step into Formula 1 and for the support they showed as I developed. It’s a tough sport, especially as a rookie, but this team has backed me all the way,” Zhou said.
With Sauber’s reshaped lineup now nearly confirmed, all eyes are on Bortoleto as he prepares to bring a fresh perspective to the evolving team. The changes also underscore Sauber’s ambition to make a strong entrance as Audi’s official team in 2026, balancing new talent with established expertise as Hulkenberg and Bortoleto prepare for an impactful 2025 season.
