Valtteri Bottas is in the final year of his Sauber contract, although he is confident of securing another deal in Formula 1. The 34-year-old is in a critical stage of his career, with over 60% of the grid also entering free agency.
Just two years ago, the Finn was praised for his sensational debut with Alfa Romeo. Bottas frequently finished in the top seven positions, optimising a car that (early in the campaign) was several kilos lighter than the rest.
However, a less competitive car last season largely changed this narrative. Though still boasting an impressive CV, he does not enjoy the same positive media coverage from 2022.
In the first two rounds of 2024, an uninspiring (though not entirely uncompetitive) C44 has done little to change this.
The Swiss-based team is still capable of fighting for points, but they are currently reliant on unforced errors from the top teams.
Therefore, even well-executed races or qualifying sessions and Grand Prix from Bottas could go under the radar.
BOTTAS CITES ALONSO AS CASE STUDY FOR F1 LONGEVITY
Despite this challenging environment, he is confident of continuing in Formula 1 next year and beyond:
“Fernando [Alonso] has been quite motivational to see.
“His performances are great. He’s not a young boy anymore, but I wouldn’t say he’s degraded at all in terms of performance.”
Bottas added that racing in Formula 1 for “another five years or so” is attainable.
Valtteri Bottas, Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, and Alex Chan, Race Engineer, Stake F1 Team, on the grid ; 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Formula One World Championship
THE AUDI FACTOR
When analysing his future, Audi cannot be overlooked – especially after their recent 100% acquisition of the Hinwil-based squad.
Unfortunately for Bottas, the German manufacturer’s arrival could make his seat even more sought after.
Nico Hulkenberg and Carlos Sainz are among the drivers linked with a switch to Sauber in 2025 as the team prepares to compete in Formula 1 as a manufacturer.
However, if Audi is not a viable option, the 10-time race winner still has clear future aspirations:
“For me, the motivation is the future. What is exciting is trying to get closer to the front, especially with this team.
“Sometimes, I do have to remind myself of the long-term goals. As it is sometimes tough when you’re fighting close to the back…
“My personal target is, one way or another, to get on the podium in the next two or three years.”
Ultimately, the volatility of the driver market means it is difficult to make any forecasts for 2025.
There is no denying that an experienced and ever-reliable driver like Bottas could be valuable to many teams.
What complicates matters for the Finn, however, is that plenty of young talents are also emerging.
In this climate, Valtteri Bottas must perform at his best across the 2024 F1 season.
