Sauber confirms Bortoleto to compete next year in Formula 1 as Bottas and Zhou exit

Brazilian newcomer Gabriel Bortoleto is set to join Sauber in Formula 1 starting next year, as announced by the team on Wednesday. This announcement also confirmed the exit of Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu.

Bortoleto, who is part of the McLaren junior program, will partner with the seasoned Nico Hulkenberg, who is 37 years old, in the 2025 season.

Currently, Bortoleto leads the F2 standings.

"This represents one of the most thrilling projects in motorsport, if not in all sports," Sauber quoted him as saying, noting that the team will transition to become Audi's entry in 2026.

"It is a genuine honor to join a team that merges the illustrious motorsport heritage of Sauber with Audi."

Bottas and Zhou will leave the team at the conclusion of the season, having failed to score any points in the driver's championship thus far.

"Following open and constructive discussions with Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu, we mutually agreed that the conditions for continuing our collaboration could not be fulfilled, and thus we decided it was time to part ways," Sauber stated.

"We extend our gratitude to both for their contributions to the team over the past three years. They have exemplified professionalism, leveraging their experience and enthusiasm to aid our development."

The future remains uncertain for the 35-year-old Bottas, a former driver for Williams and Mercedes, as well as for the 25-year-old Zhou.

Last month, Bottas mentioned he would contemplate a return to Mercedes as a reserve driver next year if he is not retained by Sauber.

Zhou made history as China's first Formula 1 driver with Sauber.

"Unfortunately, the last two seasons have posed challenges for everyone, but I am eager to look ahead," Zhou stated in a Wednesday announcement.

He further remarked, "I am currently exploring several options to remain within the Formula 1 paddock."

SportsLigue