Valtteri Bottas spills the beans on Sauber’s MAJOR weakness

Since exiting Mercedes, Bottas has been struggling to produce solid performances.

Valtteri Bottas spills the beans on Sauber’s MAJOR weakness

Valtteri Bottas (via IMAGO)

Valtteri Bottas has had a successful career in Formula 1, with an extremely successful stint with Mercedes racking up 10 race wins. The Finn is now driving for the Sauber team, after having joined the squad in 2022 after being replaced by George Russell.

Sauber is being bought out by Audi in 2026 as the German manufacturer plans to join the sport. Sauber, formerly known as Alfa Romeo, does have some weaknesses, as Bottas pointed out. The 2020 runner-up claimed that the team is slow to respond, which delays upgrades.

For us at the moment, the way we can turn around upgrades [is a key area that needs to be addressed]. At the moment, we find something in the wind tunnel, how long it takes to actually get it in the car... That's, I would say, one quite big thing compared to some other things...Mechanically, a few things here and there in terms of balance tools, but then also aero side [need work].
Valtteri Bottas said, as reported by Autosport.com

Sauber finished ninth in the year’s standings, remaining a backmarker after many difficult years. Now, ahead of Audi’s entry, Sauber will attempt to turn things around so Audi can hit the ground running competitively.

Valtteri Bottas asserts that Audi is not his only hope

Valtteri Bottas has a solid career, with a track record that is nothing short of consistent. Bottas was a strong supporting driver in Lewis Hamilton’s championship bids, and outperformed his teammate Zhou Guanyu in both their seasons together.

Valtteri Bottas
Valtteri Bottas

Now, ahead of Audi’s entry into the sport, Bottas is determined to earn a place on the team by displaying his prowess. However, in case the 34-year-old fails to cut the motorsports giant, he has asserted that he will not hesitate to switch teams.

Being part of Audi would be my number one priority and preference. But if for some reason not, then absolutely I would talk to [other teams].
Valtteri Bottas said, as reported by motorsport.com

Audi has some preferences for its team that could see Bottas face strict competition for the seat. One of the frontrunners is Nico Hulkenberg, who matches Bottas in terms of experience and is also good for the Audi brand due to his German nationality.

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