Valtteri Bottas has broken his silence amid speculation about his future in Formula 1, strongly suggesting that he will remain with Sauber for the 2025 season in a bid to revive his racing career. Speaking at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, via Crash.net, Bottas expressed confidence in his prospects, stating he is “99%” sure of staying with the team, quelling rumors about a possible move away from F1.
“Not anymore,” he confirmed when asked about a backup away from the sport.
Bottas’ retention at Sauber is critical, as the team has only one vacant race seat left for the upcoming season, with the other already filled by current Haas driver, Nico Hulkenberg. Currently, the Finn is vying against teammate Zhou Guanyu for the spot, as Sauber considers balancing Bottas’ wealth of experience against the potential of rookie drivers like F2’s Gabriel Bortoleto.
“Still talking. Progressing. I am still positive. I shouldn’t really say much, but that’s where we are,” Bottas said optimistically.
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The ongoing talks are progressing favorably, although Bottas acknowledges there are “many things to discuss” to reach a mutual agreement.
The Finnish driver highlighted his seasoned experience as a crucial asset for Sauber, especially as the team contends with being at the bottom of the constructors’ standings.
“My strength is experience and what I can bring to the team,” Bottas highlighted confidently.
The strained performance that the team has endured lately has placed both Bottas and Zhou at the lower end of the drivers’ standings. Nonetheless, Bottas remains hopeful that a more competitive car next season could turn the tide.
“This sport is unfair,” Bottas admitted, adding, “I’ve seen that many times. I am in a difficult situation because of the performance of the car.”
Adding another layer to the equation, Mattia Binotto, former Ferrari team principal, recently joined Sauber, ahead of their transformation into Audi in 2026. Bottas spoke positively about his relationship with Binotto, praising the regular updates and the clear direction set for the team’s future.
“He has learned that there is a big mountain to climb, it won’t be an easy road. We have built a good relationship, good respect, both ways,” Bottas said. “We need actions, we need change. The last two years things have been going downhill so something needs to change.”
He continued, expressing a clear vision of staying with Sauber.
“Hopefully, I’ll be here next year, the car will be better, and I can show a bit more,” he said.
As Sauber prepares for its transition into Audi, Bottas’ seasoned insight could prove invaluable alongside the experience that Hulkenberg also brings to the table.
“It’s pretty clear what I want, and hopefully we’ll get there soon,” Bottas said.