Sauber are evaluating two options that could complete their 2025 driver line-up. With Zhou Guanyu no longer under consideration, the Swiss team are in talks with Valtteri Bottas and Gabriel Bortoleto. Although Sauber is Bottas’ final option to stay in F1, he will not compromise on his contract priorities.
Valtteri Bottas insists on a multi-year deal in Sauber talks
Bottas underlines his objectives
Since making the decision to leave Mercedes and join Sauber, Bottas has spoken extensively about the importance of signing long-term deals.
The Finn does not want a return to the uncertainty of the one-year contracts he received as Mercedes. The 35-year-old wants to join a team that sees him as part of their project for the long term.
Consistent with this non-negotiable, Bottas has told the media he wants to be part of the Audi project in 2026 and beyond:
“I’m only interested in a multi-year contract.
“Because if I only sign for one year, I know that it probably won’t be easy [getting another contract] next year either. That’s not very interesting for my career.
“My priority is to be part of Audi. Since the announcement that the brand is coming to Formula 1, I have always shown my interest in this project.
“I have the experience, and I think that’s what the team needs.”
Understandably, Bottas believes that securing a long-term contract is essential to safeguard his place in the team. A one-year contract would put him in an awkward position next year, where he would be fighting to stay in F1 once more.
A short-term deal would also demonstrate an unwillingness from Audi to make him a part of their plans.
Bortoleto also under consideration
It remains to be seen how far Bottas will pursue this multi-year demand. Although he is obviously a leading contender to stay at Sauber, he does not have the luxury of being the team’s only option.
Since being appointed CTO, Mattia Binotto has evaluated a handful of candidates. One of the favourites is Gabriel Bortoleto, the 19-year-old Brazilian who is 2nd in the Formula 2 standings.
Considering that Bortoleto is in his rookie season, there is reason to be excited about his performances so far. Bortoleto is a very different alternative to Bottas, representing youth and potential – compared to the Finn’s experience and proven track record.
Given that Audi’s F1 entry is intended to grow the brand, signing a young Brazilian could be an attractive proposition.
In addition to Bortoleto’s obvious speed and potential, he could bring a wave of support and sponsorship to the Hinwil-based team. In this sense, Valtteri Bottas still faces strong competition to keep his place in the squad.
Negotiations are still ongoing behind the scenes, with all options being considered. Bottas clearly believes his chances of earning an extension are high enough that he can risk being bold in contract talks.
Then again, this does not guarantee Sauber are willing to give him the long-term contract he desires.
For now, at least, the Swiss team’s decision-makers will continue completing their decision. It should take some time before Nico Hulkenberg’s teammate for next season is revealed.
