The Sauber team, owned by Audi, is not giving in to pressure from Valtteri Bottas for a quicker decision regarding its second driver in 2025.
The Finnish team starter told the US GP that he needs boss Mattia Binotto to give him a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ as soon as possible because even alternative options outside of Formula 1 will be sold out by Christmas.
“They have time, but I have to push for a decision to be made quickly. A month ago we were already saying that the decision should be made as soon as possible. At some point I have to give a date limited to the team.”
Asked about Bottas’ comments, Binotto responded to Austin: “We are in no hurry and can afford the luxury of waiting.”
He confirmed that Mick Schumacher was “Really” an option to become Nico Hulkenberg’s teammate in 2025, which would allow Audi to form an all-German team.
“I met him again this Friday. I get along very well with Mick and I told him: don’t decide anything yet.”
“So he’s on the list, it’s a real option, it’s not to please the media or Mick that I’m saying that. But it has to be a decision of reason, not an emotional decision.”
Schumacher has been off the F1 grid since he was sacked for his poor performances by former Haas F1 boss Gunther Steiner at the end of his second season in 2022.
Steiner, now a television commentator, told Austin: “It will be difficult for him to find a place, but I think it would be good if he could get a chance elsewhere because we feel he has something to prove.”
Related News :