In a dramatic turn of events, Valtteri Bottas has given Sauber an ultimatum: make a decision on his future, or he’s gone. The Finn, who’s showcased a strong season with a series of impressive qualifications, has been left waiting too long by Sauber team boss Mattia Binotto, who has yet to select a teammate for Nico Hulkenberg for 2025.
With a résumé that includes 10 Grand Prix victories, 20 pole positions, and 67 podium finishes from his time at Mercedes, Bottas has proven his worth this season, notably outqualifying Zhou Guanyu 19-1. He’s even shown up big names like Lewis Hamilton and Sergio Perez on track, proving he still has plenty of fuel left in the tank.
“By Austin, I thought things would be sorted out,” Bottas shared with F1-Insider.com. “But now, it’s just a waiting game, and that’s no way to plan for the future. At some point, I’ll have to set a deadline for them. Christmas is coming, and if I need to find a new job—whether in F1 or elsewhere—time’s running out.”
So, What’s Next for Bottas if He Decides to Walk?
- Return to Mercedes as Reserve Driver Bottas knows the Mercedes camp well, having been Lewis Hamilton’s dependable wingman from 2017-2021, a period that saw Mercedes win five constructors’ championships. With George Russell and young Kimi Antonelli at the helm, the 35-year-old Bottas could return as a reserve and development driver, lending his vast experience to a younger lineup and contributing his “wise head” to strategy meetings.
- Join Red Bull Racing Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has been openly critical of Sergio Perez’s performances, hinting that a replacement might be in order. Enter Bottas, who might be just the steady presence Red Bull needs. Bottas’s one-lap speed, proven track record as a team player, and ability to fly under the radar of Verstappen’s spotlight could make him the perfect fit.
- Switch to IndyCar Perhaps the wildest option of all, Bottas has hinted at a potential switch to IndyCar. Should he make the leap, he’d become the highest-profile F1 driver to enter the American series since Fernando Alonso’s 2017 Indianapolis 500 bid. This would add fuel to the F1 vs. IndyCar debate, providing a unique opportunity for fans to see how the Finn’s skill set measures up against Indy’s finest.
As Bottas waits for the clock to tick down on his Sauber future, he’s staying ready and looking toward new horizons. One way or another, fans can expect to see the Finn on track, whether it’s in Formula 1, with Mercedes, Red Bull—or even roaring through the ovals of IndyCar.
