Mick Schumacher was among the contenders for a seat at Sauber, but the team decided to sign a contract with Gabriel Bortoleto. Speaking to the press, Sauber operations and technical director Mattia Binotto explained why Mick was not chosen.
Mattia Binotto: “Mick was a strong candidate for a place in the team and we had several negotiations. I know him very well and know his strengths and possible weaknesses. However, I think Mick, along with a number of other candidates, would be an excellent choice.
But sometimes there comes a time when a decision has to be made. I don’t think you can blame me for anything, but the reason is very simple: we decided to sign a contract with Gabriel, and that’s it.
I think this question can be referred to Toto Wolff: why did he choose Kimi Antonelli and not Mick?
At some point you just have to make a decision, and then you make it. Today we decided to hire Gabriel and we are happy with our choice.”
When asked why Sauber refused the services of Valtteri Bottas, Binotto replied: “First of all, I have a very good relationship with Valtteri. From the moment I joined the team in August, we had good contact and trusted each other.
Valtteri and I had several conversations about our collaboration, its duration and the difficulties we may face next season. We know that 2025 will be a difficult year as part of the team’s transformation into Audi F1.
We have a very long journey ahead of us and, thinking about its duration, we came to the conclusion that the team most likely needs a young driver. Valtteri and I gained insight into the factors. Moreover, I would like to emphasize that Valtteri was a very strong candidate.
I know he is very fast, and he has proven that more than once. He is in excellent physical condition, knows the team and is very highly regarded in the paddock. So it wasn’t an easy decision, but sometimes you have to come to conclusions and make a decision.”
Valtteri Bottas could return to Mercedes as a reserve driver next season.
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.
