In a double-whammy announcement, Kick Sauber announced on Wednesday that both Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu would leave the team at the end of 2024. The team stated that the conditions to continue with the drivers could not be met, and a mutual decision had been made. Both the drivers have struggled since joining the team three years ago, and neither has scored points in the 21 race weekends so far this season.
The Swiss motorsport–engineering team will be rebranded as Audi in 2024, and have also confirmed the signing of F2 Championship leader, Gabriel Bortoleto who will race alongside veteran Nico Hulkenberg.
A Difficult Season for Bottas and Zhou
With a subpar car that has posed multiple challenges, 2024 has been a particularly frustrating season for Bottas and Zhou. They have struggled to bring home points despite both of them being skilled drivers. More often than not, their efforts have gone in vain due to the car’s limitations.
Zhou, the first Chinese driver in the history of Formula 1, nearly scored a point in his home race at the Shanghai Grand Prix and gave everyone a glimpse of his potential but his spot in the sport remains uncertain. The 25–year-old has been crucial in the sport’s popularity in China, where he is viewed as an icon and has been a massive factor in making the Shanghai Grand Prix a hit.
Reflecting on his departure, Bottas said, “After all the good and in-depth discussions we had in the past weeks, we realised that the conditions to grow this project were not met.” Bottas and Zhou will race for Sauber one last time at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix with no guarantee of their future in Formula 1.
What does the future hold for Sauber?
As Kick Sauber begin their transition to Audi for 2025, with increased funding and a 100% takeover by the legendary automobile company, the team are expected to bring some fire to the championship. Bortoleto, who is famous for his unbelievable race in Monza where he went from 22nd to the top of the podium, adds an exciting facet to the team, even though he is only 20.
On the other hand, the driver’s market is filled with talents like Oliver Bearman and Franco Colapinto, who have caught the eyes of teams and fans alike, leaving little space for active roles next season.
Bottas Eyes Possible Mercedes Return
While Zhou’s future is unclear, the 35-year-old Bottas, with incomparable experience, has expressed his interest in rejoining Mercedes as a reserve driver. With Lewis Hamilton departing the Silver Arrows following the team’s failure to produce a championship–winning car, they will lose significant experience in the lineup. Considering that Mercedes have signed teen talent Kimi Antonelli and extended their contract with George Russell, Bottas will add experience in the garage and will also be a valuable asset in case of emergencies or injuries. According to motorsport.com, conversations between Bottas and Mercedes about a reserve–driver role are already underway.