Sauber Shake-up Sees New Talent as Season Concludes
As the 2024 Formula 1 season heads into its final three races, Sauber F1 aka Audi F1 GP as of 2026 appears set to formalize their driver line-up for 2025. Sources indicate that Formula 2 sensation Gabriel Bortoleto will join the Swiss-based team, likely ending Valtteri Bottas’ stint on the F1 grid. Motorsport insiders expect an official announcement at the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix, making Bortoleto the first full-time Brazilian F1 driver since Felipe Massa retired in 2017.
Bortoleto, the current F2 championship leader, visited the Brazilian GP paddock this week with his management team, reportedly finalizing details for a Sauber seat. The 19-year-old’s ascension to F1 could disrupt the landscape, as teams look for fresh talent to bolster future Audi partnerships.
While Sauber’s second seat remains officially unconfirmed, signs point to Zhou Guanyu also moving on. Meanwhile, Nico Hulkenberg who already announced his plans to leave Haas and join the forthcoming Audi team for 2025, marking an era of change as F1 reshuffles its roster. Hulkenberg’s experience alongside Sauber’s up-and-coming talent could solidify a powerful lineup under Audi’s future vision.
The rumored deal with Bortoleto is a high-stakes decision for Sauber, which debated whether to prioritize youth or experience. Bottas, having raced for Sauber since leaving Mercedes, now faces limited options. A possible return to Mercedes as a reserve driver has been hinted, but Bottas remains vocal about his desire to continue racing full-time.
A former member of McLaren’s junior program, Bortoleto appears to have the backing to succeed in Formula 1, with McLaren granting him a path to a full-time role. His arrival signals a shift toward emerging talent in F1—a promising move for the Brazilian fan base eager for representation on the world stage.
With just a few details pending, Bortoleto’s Las Vegas announcement could mark a significant milestone for Sauber, F1, and Brazil.
Click HERE for 2024 Brazilian GP Race Results
IMAGES: Formula 1 + Sauber F1
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