Bottas Fights for F1 Seat Beyond 2024 Amid Uncertainty

Valtteri Bottas is in talks to secure his Formula 1 future with Sauber beyond the 2024 season.

Sauber / Stake F1 driver Valtteri Bottas has disclosed that he is currently engaging in discussions to secure his position on the Formula 1 grid beyond 2024.

Bottas’ current contract with the Swiss team will expire at the end of this season, but he stated that an extension to stay within the Audi F1 project (for 2026) is his goal.

Unfortunately, in all the speculation, the Finn’s name does not top the list of Germans, just like his teammate, Guanyu Zhou.

Asked about the state of his discussions with Sauber and other teams, Bottas revealed that he had started having conversations but that it was not really progressing on his side.

“I’m moving things forward slowly, slowly. But nothing fundamental for now.”

“I think we need a few more races under our belt, and I hope that with some good results, things will move forward a bit more, but not much yet.”

Bottas acknowledged that there is a certain danger of being left without a team, which has prompted him to work to secure his future as quickly as possible.

“That’s why you have to try to stay one step ahead. That’s what my management is working on in the background.”

“I’m focusing on driving and I have people backstage trying to read the market and work on different options if necessary.”

“Obviously, being part of Audi, it could be a great opportunity for me but I need to secure my future as well.”

Bottas stated that he misses the feeling of fighting at the front of the pack since his departure from Mercedes in 2021. Can he still wait for such a project? Should he consider a more competitive seat in another category to win?

“I don’t really want to give a specific number on how many years I have left, simply because I don’t see the end coming yet.”

“I still feel I have a lot to give and a lot to achieve in F1. Now, my motivation is to get closer to the top. Yes, I miss that feeling of fighting more towards the front and it’s something to consider, obviously, for my career.”

Bottas believes that his extensive experience in F1 will be an attractive factor working in his favor, alongside his reputation as a “good team player.”

“The more experience you have, the more you can adapt to certain things. I hope that will be my strength. Moreover, teams should know by now that I am a good team player with everyone who has worked alongside me.”