The German Auto Motor und Sport writes that Sauber has made a choice about the driver who will be Nico Hulkenberg’s partner next season. According to the publication, the team has decided not to renew the contract with Valtteri Bottas.
Gabriel Bortoleto will replace the Finn next season. His contract has reportedly already been signed and an official announcement is expected soon. Sauber did not announce the contract during the Sao Paulo Grand Prix to protect the young driver from increased media attention on his home stage.
In 2024, Gabriel Borotoleto will compete in Formula 2 and lead the individual rankings two rounds before the end of the season. The Brazilian driver is part of McLaren’s youth program but with the team having signed long-term contracts with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, boss Andrea Stella said he would not interfere with Bortoleto’s transfer.
At a press conference in Brazil, Stella said: “It is very normal that Formula 1 teams are interested in Gabriel as their driver. McLaren will not stop Gabriel from participating in Formula 1. Negotiations continue and we will see what scenario events will follow.”
Source: F1 News
I am Christopher Clyde, an experienced journalist and content writer with a passion for sports. I have been writing about Formula 1 news for the past five years and am currently employed as an author at athletistic.com, one of the top sports websites in the US.
