Sauber has made a significant announcement regarding their driver lineup for the 2025 Formula 1 season. The team confirmed that Gabriel Bortoleto from Brazil will be joining veteran driver Nico Hulkenberg. This decision is part of their strategic shift as Sauber prepares to transition to Audi power in 2026.
On Wednesday, the team revealed that both Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu would leave at the end of the 2024 season. Bortoleto, who currently leads the Formula 2 championship with two races remaining, joins Sauber after a productive stint with McLaren’s driver program, which he joined in 2023.
In a statement, the team underscored the importance of Bortoleto’s signing: "We are currently witnessing a generational shift in Formula 1, with young drivers immediately making an impact. By signing Gabriel Bortoleto, we have secured one of these top talents. His signing underscores Audi's long-term strategy and commitment to Formula 1," stated Sauber.
Bortoleto expressed enthusiasm for joining Sauber, noting, "Joining a team that combines the rich motorsport history of Sauber and Audi is a true honour. Beyond simply being a member, I aim to grow with this ambitious project and reach the pinnacle of motorsport."
The partnership with Fernando Alonso’s driver management company has significantly shaped Bortoleto's career. Reflecting on his connection with the two-time world champion, he quipped, "We always joke about it, to be honest, because before I was born he started racing in Formula One. And now I'm getting there, I'm going to drive with him hopefully. He has been helping me obviously a lot in my journey teaching me a lot of stuff and supporting me ... and yeah, I think it will be very fun and I will have a good time with him."
Bortoleto's arrival signals a new era for Sauber, especially with the high expectations tied to Audi’s future involvement. Mattia Binotto, the team principal of Sauber, recognized the potential in Bortoleto, stating that while he had minimal discussions with Alonso about Bortoleto's future, it was the driver's talent that ultimately won him over. "We met in the paddock but he never influenced, he never tried really to come with me with convincing arguments. I think what convinced me was Gabriel and nothing else. With Fernando I had once a chat but really very, very little," Binotto explained.
Bottas has been a cornerstone of the Sauber team during his three seasons, significantly impacting the performance and dynamics of the team. Just last week, he hinted at a potential return to Mercedes as a reserve driver, a team where he previously won ten races in his career. Sauber highlighted Bottas's contributions in their official statement, noting, "Within the driver line-up, Valtteri has been a driving force, elevating both his teammate and the team with his unparalleled experience, enthusiasm, invaluable technical insights and fighting spirit."
Zhou Guanyu also played a critical role in the team's journey, forming a productive partnership with Bottas. Presenting a mix of experience and youthful spirit, Zhou's performance has improved greatly, establishing him as a reliable and exciting driver. "Joining as a rookie, Zhou formed a strong partnership with teammate, Valtteri Bottas, as the duo mixed experience and youthful enthusiasm. Zhou's learning curve was steep, but the Shanghai-born driver made quick progression and went on to establish himself as a reliable performer and an exciting driver with a knack for attacking," the team noted.
As Sauber looks to finish the 2024 season on a high note, Zhou and the team are committed to giving their best efforts in the last three races. The goals are clear, as they strive to complete this stage of their journey successfully, with everyone eager to contribute to the team's objectives.