Sauber Weighs Final Driver Options for 2024 F1 Season as Audi Partnership Looms

Sauber is considering their choices for the last available seat on next year's Formula One grid, with decisions possibly taking weeks. German Nico Hulkenberg's signing from Haas and Ferrari's ex-principal Mattia Binotto leading Audi's project are major moves. Finn Valtteri Bottas remains a top candidate, among others.

Sauber is meticulously weighing their options for the final seat on the 2024 Formula One grid, as they gear up to become the Audi factory team by 2026, according to representative Alessandro Alunni Bravi.

The team has already secured German driver Nico Hulkenberg from Haas and appointed Ferrari's former principal Mattia Binotto to head their F1 project, scheduled to commence in July. Bravi revealed at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix on Friday that Binotto is assessing driver options, although no imminent decision is expected.

Finnish driver Valtteri Bottas, currently in his third season with Sauber and having prior stints at Williams and Mercedes, remains a strong contender. Bravi noted the importance of balancing short-term experience with long-term potential, indicating that both seasoned drivers and young talents are under consideration. Brazilian Formula Two prospect Gabriel Bortoleto is another notable candidate.

(With inputs from agencies.)