Bottas welcomes fresh discussions with Stake F1, marking a new era of transparency under Binotto.
Valtteri Bottas is aware that Stake F1, set to become Audi in 2026, is currently his best option for that year, especially since Carlos Sainz has signed with Williams and Alpine appears to be leaning towards Jack Doohan. However, initiating dialogue with Mattia Binotto, the newly appointed head of the Swiss team, was the Finnish driver’s first step.
“Clearly, Mattia has just started,” Bottas stated. “As I mentioned in Spa, the arrival of a new point of communication has changed things. We had a brief discussion post-Spa, and have continued our conversations this week.”
“That’s where we stand at the moment. He knows me a bit, and now we are getting to know each other better. We were competitors when I was with Mercedes and he was with Ferrari. But it seems there is mutual respect, which is a good starting point for discussions.”
Bottas praises Binotto’s candour and the sense of a fresh start, both for the team and in his negotiations: “Over the past six months, I felt like I wasn’t the top priority.”
“It’s evident that there was a signing before me and that the team and its management explored all possible options, sometimes with scant communication. But now, things are somewhat different. As I said, there’s been a reset.”
“There’s now a clear structure at the top about who does what. I think that’s a good thing for the future. Mattia comes from a team that has enjoyed considerable success. He knows what a good team needs. So, I think it’s a good thing for the future of this team.”
Bottas revealed that Binotto has guided him on the future of the team: “I’m learning more about the Audi project, its investments, and its achievements in recent years. Over the last two weeks, I’ve gained further insights. This definitely makes me more confident that this project will succeed sooner or later.”
Bottas is confident that stepping away from the Sainz track might boost his chances: “Certainly, it means one less driver in the mix, so yes, I believe there are now probably greater opportunities.”
“Ultimately, the decision is theirs to make. But they are undoubtedly assessing all options, as they should. However, I imagine I should be in a strong position. But clearly, it depends on Mattia and Audi.”
Asked about an ideal timeline to confirm his future, Bottas would prefer a swift resolution: “It’s already August, nearly September. So, the sooner, the better for everyone. I think there is consensus on this point. That’s just how things sometimes unfold.”
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Binotto Brings ‘Transparency’ to F1, Bottas Approves Binotto Brings ‘Transparency’ to F1, Bottas Approves
