P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Audi says young drivers performing at a high level as rookies is marking “a general shift in Formula 1” that persuaded it to back Gabriel Bortoleto for a race seat with its F1 partner, Sauber. Bort…
Audi’s decision to support Gabriel Bortoleto for a race seat with Sauber in the 2025 Formula 1 season reflects a broader trend of young drivers showing exceptional performance early in their careers, according to Audi CEO Gernot Dollner. Bortoleto, a 20-year-old who won last season’s Formula 3 championship and currently leads the F2 standings, is seen as a top talent by Audi. The move is part of Audi’s long-term strategy and commitment to Formula 1, as it prepares to transition into a works team. With Bortoleto joining Sauber, current drivers Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu will be leaving the team at the end of the season. Sauber’s COO and Binotto expressed gratitude for the contributions of Bottas and Zhou over the past three years, acknowledging their role in the team’s growth on and off the track. Despite parting ways with Bottas and Zhou, the team remains focused on finishing the season strong, aiming for strong performances in Las Vegas, Doha, and Abu Dhabi.
