Sauber Motorsport COO and CTO Mattia Binotto admits replacing Valtteri Bottas with Gabriel Bortoleto in 2025 was a difficult decision.
Bortoleto was announced on Wednesday morning, confirming an all-new line-up of Brazilian rookies and Nico Hulkenberg for next season. This means there is no place for the 35-year-old Bottas and Binotto admitted the 10-time Grand Prix winner was one of the main contenders for the vacant seat but felt the time was right to introduce a younger driver while the Stake team progresses to the next level. Audi Works outfit.
“I get on very well with Valtteri.” Binotto (Pictured above, with Bottas) said. “Since I started here in August, we have had a really good relationship, building trust and rapport with each other. And I think we had a really good relationship and good communication with each other. We talked several times about the trip, its length, and the challenges we would face next season.
“We know that next season will be a difficult one for us as a team as we journey towards the transformation of Audi F1. It’s a long journey. I think we thought a lot together about the period and came to the conclusion that we should have a young driver together.
“So everything with him was a mutual understanding of the situation, the facts and what was needed. It was definitely a mutual understanding, if not an agreement.
“Rather than that, I want to emphasize that he was clearly a very strong candidate. I know he is very fast. I know he has proven to this day to be very fast and fit and knows the team well. Clearly he is very highly regarded here and very highly regarded at the ranch.
“So overall it hasn’t been easy, but sometimes you have to draw conclusions and make decisions. And we did it.”
Bottas said both sides were aware of the inconsistencies in their future plans, as it now seems certain the Finn will not compete in Formula 1 until 2025.
“Situations like this are never easy for anyone,” Bottas said. “However, after the excellent and in-depth discussions we have had over the past few weeks, we have realized that the conditions for growing this project together have not been met.
“The last few years with the team have been an incredible journey filled with growth, challenges and unforgettable moments. Thank you for our experience together and for the trust and support we felt every step of the way. It’s time to move on, but I will always carry a part of this team with me and I’m excited to see what the future holds for both of us.
“When one door closes, another opens. I’m actually very excited about the future and the next steps.”
