Valtteri Bottas says remaining with Sauber through its transition to Audi would be a “great opportunity”, amid the German’s proposed entry into Formula 1.
Audi confirmed in mid-2022 that it will become a strategic partner of Sauber from 2026, when new engine regulations are introduced, and undertook a gradual takeover of the outfit.
It was confirmed earlier this month that a deal had been reached whereby Audi will acquire 100 per cent of the organisation from the existing shareholders, facilitating further investment in the outfit ahead of its 2026 entry.
“I think it just gives security to the team that everyone knows there is a clear plan,” said Bottas. “Everyone in the team wants to be part of it. Because now they know, that Audi is the 100 per cent owner.”
Bottas joined Sauber from Mercedes on a multi-year deal ahead of the 2022 season but is out of contract after 2024.
It is understood that Sauber’s management have already explored alternative options for 2025 and beyond.
But the Finn says he remains keen to stay on and spearhead Audi’s Formula 1 challenge.
“I still feel like, I have lots of give, lots to achieve,” said Bottas. “And now my motivation is to get back closer to the top, I missed that feeling of, you know, fighting more towards the front end.
“And obviously, being part of Audi, that could be a great opportunity for me to do that. So of course, that’s interesting for me.
“Experience is important in sport, and also when there’s regulation changes, you need to be quite dynamic on the direction you take with a car and new ideas. And also, the more you have experienced, the more you can adapt to certain things.
“So, I hope that’s going to be my, my strength on that. And also, they should know, I’m quite good team player, with anyone who’s alongside me.”
