Valtteri Bottas has explained that talks regarding him remaining in Formula 1 with Sauber beyond 2024 broke down as the “conditions to grow together were not met”.
Sauber has announced Bottas and team-mate Guanyu Zhou will depart once this season concludes as Gabriel Bortoleto will partner Nico Hulkenberg in a new line-up.
Bottas had been in discussions with the team about an extension to his expiring deal amid his hope to be present once it morphs into a works Audi operation in 2026.
The Finn, a 10-time race winner in F1, boasted optimism as late as last month that he would be retained and even divulged that terms on a potential deal were agreed.
However, Sauber has chosen to head in an alternative direction as current Formula 2 points leader Bortoleto has been signed to complement Hulkenberg’s experience.
“A situation like this is never easy for anyone,” Bottas, who has disclosed that he would consider a return to Mercedes as a reserve driver, admitted.
“But after all the good and in-depth discussions we had in the past weeks, we realised that the conditions to grow this project together were not met.
“These past years with the team have been an incredible journey, full of growth, challenges, and unforgettable moments.
“I’m grateful for the joint experiences as well as the trust and support I’ve felt every step of the way.
“Though it’s time to move on, I’ll always carry a piece of this team with me, and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for us both.”
Bottas Sauber exit a ‘mutual’ decision
Mattia Binotto, who was appointed over the summer to lead the Sauber/Audi venture, has insisted that the choice not to continue with Bottas was a “mutual” decision.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to Valtteri for the past three years together,” the Swiss-Italian added.
“He has been the embodiment of professionalism, using his vast experience to support the team’s growth.
“Valtteri’s dedication and approach have been invaluable during a pivotal time in our history, and the memories of these years will stay with us for a long time.
“In considering our driver line-up for the coming seasons, Valtteri was unquestionably a key candidate.
“With his fighting spirit, he frequently pushed the car beyond its performance limits. However, a decision had to be made.
“After open and constructive discussions, we mutually concluded that final conditions could not be met so we agreed that it is time to part ways.
“Valtteri will always have an open door here in Hinwil,” he concluded.
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