Sauber is considering several options for its driver line-up in 2025. The Swiss outfit could replace both Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu, with the team already in negotiations with alternatives. However, these drivers are still – in theory – in contention for a contract extension. Meanwhile, what seems clear is that Nico Hulkenberg is a top priority target for Sauber. Hulkenberg is expected to race with Audi next season, with some outlets suggesting a deal is already in place.
Less than a year ago, Sauber was already taking strides to bring Nico Hulkenberg into the team. Ultimately these efforts were unsuccessful, owing to the German driver’s contract with Haas. Guenther Steiner was able to activate the second year on Hulkenberg’s 1+1 year deal, therefore preventing a move.
(Photo by Mark Sutton / LAT Images)
HULKENBERG AND AUDI TALKS
However, no such clause will impede negotiations on this occasion. It is common knowledge in F1 circles that both parties are happy to reach an agreement, whilst f1-insider reports that one is on the verge of being signed. This would be a natural conclusion to this story. As evidenced only days ago in Shanghai, Hulkenberg is a driver with immense speed and consistency.
These are two qualities that Audi are looking for in a driver. In just two years, the German manufacturer will debut its power units in Formula 1. Having a driver who can deliver strong results on a regular basis is essential. His feedback will also be essential in the team’s early seasons, which will mark their first baby steps in an ultra-competitive landscape.
From Hulkenberg’s perspective, this switch is very logical. Whilst Haas have cleaned up their act, they are comprehensively outgunned by a manufacturer like Audi. The team simply lacks the resources to reach the heights that – in theory – Audi can aspire to.
AUDI ASSESSES OTHER OPTIONS
The question is now about who will be the second driver at Sauber in 2025. Carlos Sainz is the preferred candidate at the moment. However, the Swiss team might look elsewhere if the Spaniard is unwilling to commit quickly. The three-time race winner has legitimate interest elsewhere, with Helmut Marko confirming Red Bull have already entered negotiations.
Therefore, Audi might represent a possibility – though perhaps the most likely one – for Sainz’s future.
As mentioned previously, Bottas and Zhou are still in contention. However, it is plausible that both drivers will be replaced. Considering the plethora of options available, the team’s existing duo could miss out.
From established drivers like Sainz and Ocon to youngsters like Pourchaire at Maloney, there is no shortage of names in the market. The Alpine duo are both on expiring contracts and might be tempted to leave the French outfit after a disappointing season.
Then again, there are about a dozen drivers also searching for 2025 deals. In this context, there will inevitably be losers in the market. If reports are to be believed, at least in the Sauber camp, Zhou and Bottas could be among them.
