Valtteri Bottas claims he wants to drive for Audi in 2026

Valtteri Bottas is currently driving for Sauber, which is set to be bought out by German manufacturer Audi in 2026.

Valtteri Bottas claims he wants to drive for Audi in 2026

Valtteri Bottas (Vi:a IMAGO)

Valtteri Bottas has driven for the Sauber-run Alfa Romeo after joining it in 2022, arriving at the Italian squad from the reigning champions Mercedes. Bottas partnered Zhou Guanyu in his two seasons with Alfa Romeo, outperforming his Chinese teammate on both occasions.

Alfa Romeo underwent a management change for 2024, as the Alfa Romeo brand left as Audi lays the groundwork for an entry into the sport with a buyout of Sauber in 2026. The German team currently has not confirmed any drivers for their line-up when they arrive. Bottas is eyeing the spot in Audi, calling the seat his ultimate goal amid incoming turbulence in the driver market in 2024.

I think there's actually many drivers without contracts, so it's going to be quite interesting to follow how things fall into place. For me, the goal is clear. I definitely want to be part of the Audi project.
Valtteri Bottas said, as reported by formu1a.uno.

Valtteri Bottas has vowed to prove himself to Audi, a team which has experienced major success in other motorsport series. However, Audi already has another driver, Nico Hulkenberg in mind as the Haas driver’s German nationality could promote the brand.

Valtteri Bottas plans to compete in international cycling championship in 2024

Valtteri Bottas has an illustrious Formula One career with 10 wins and multiple top-three finishes in the Championship. But alongside a successful motorsport career, the Finn also has an interest in amateur cycling, competing in many series alongside his girlfriend Tiffany Cromwell, who competes in cycling professionally.

Valtteri Bottas
Valtteri Bottas

Bottas hopes to join his partner as a professional cyclist in 2024, as the 34-year-old hopes to qualify for the UCI Gravel World Championship, the premier class of gravel cycling. Bottas will be competing in early October, and Bottas has asserted his dedication to competing in the series.

I do take [races] seriously, and will always go out to challenge myself and make the most of it. Whether it’s result, tactically or average speed I go all in. I don’t mind hurting myself. I kind of like it. I will try to qualify for the gravel worlds next year.
Valtteri Bottas said, as reported by PlanetF1

Bottas has been involved with cycling for a while, and has taken part in many events. The Sauber driver helped his partner Tiffany Cromwell prepare for the annual Tour de France Femmes event, one of the biggest cycling events in the world.

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