Colapinto’s Stellar Performance Fuels Audi F1 Aspirations, While Bottas Faces Possible Mercedes Test Role Return
Valtteri Bottas’ future in Formula 1 hangs in the balance, with possibilities ranging from a career extension to a shift into a new role.
Following the Singapore Grand Prix, the Finnish driver appeared close to securing a one-year renewal with Sauber, now under Audi’s ownership. However, the situation has dramatically evolved over the three-week break since then.
Meanwhile, emerging drivers such as Mick Schumacher, Franco Colapinto, and Gabriel Bortoleto have gained fresh traction, a fact confirmed by Mattia Binotto during the Austin race weekend.
“For now, my future seems to rest more in Mattia’s hands than mine. I’m hopeful as I believe I’m the best choice, but there’s always the risk that I won’t secure the seat. Since his arrival, we’ve established a solid rapport, discussing both my future and technical strategies,” Bottas commented post-race.
Binotto acknowledged having met with Mick Schumacher in Austin, clarifying that “no decisions have been finalised.”
As for Colapinto, James Vowles disclosed that he had proposed a loan opportunity to the promising driver, though an official response is still awaited.
“I wouldn’t dismiss the possibility of seeing Franco on the grid next season. After witnessing his performance in Austin, I’m confident Mattia took notice. His impact was felt both on the track and in people’s minds.”
The talented and popular Argentine rookie seems to believe his F1 opportunity is still alive. He jokingly remarked after the United States Grand Prix, “Perhaps next year, if I’m without a seat, I’ll become a strategy engineer instead.”
After securing a point with his 10th-place finish, an enthusiastic crowd of supporters celebrated as if it were a win.
Whoever lands the Audi-Sauber seat won’t be on a short-term one-year contract, despite recent speculation.
“We’re focused on the future and building a cohesive team,” Binotto shared after the race. “A one-year deal would be counterproductive from that standpoint, so we’re negotiating a multi-year contract.” Binotto added that a final decision is expected “by mid-November at the latest.”
For Bottas, the news may not be as favourable.
“I’ve heard Bottas could be returning to Mercedes as a test driver in 2025,” revealed former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher on Sunday.
Swiss publication Blick echoed this rumour, reporting that Schumacher’s information came directly from sources close to Bottas.
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Audi-Sauber Eyes Colapinto – Bottas Linked to Mercedes Test Role Audi-Sauber Eyes Colapinto – Bottas Linked to Mercedes Test Role
