The future of Sauber looks exciting, as German car manufacturing giants Audi will complete their takeover of the team in 2026, starting from square one like all of the other teams under the new engine regulations.
The situation with the team is currently a complex one, with a complete reshuffle of staff having been completed over the winter break.
Former team principal Fred Vasseur left to replace Mattia Binotto at Ferrari and while Andreas Seidl then joined the team from McLaren, he took up the role of CEO rather than team principal.
Alessando Alunni Bravi will serve as team representative for the upcoming season, as the team take somewhat of a break away from having a traditional team principal.
READ: ‘Never’: Christian Horner defends FIA in row with Lewis Hamilton
While this confusing situation could be slightly alarming for the team, Alfa Romeo driver Valtteri Bottas has explained that the Audi project has provided a level of calm for the team.
“First of all, it’s really positive for everyone in the team and in the factory that everything seems to be very stable,” said the Finn via Motorsport.com.
“And there is almost something like a concrete basis for the team that everything looks good for the future, whatever happens with names and so on.
“Knowing that the support will come from Audi is only positive. So we don’t really have to worry about those names or anything like that. So I think everyone is in a good situation.
“If we didn’t have a commitment from Audi, then the situation would certainly be a bit more worrying. But I think the future of this team will look very strong here in Hinwil.”
READ: Fernando Alonso makes big Lance Stroll claim
While contract talks are set to take place in the near future, the contracts of both Bottas and his teammate Guanyu Zhou are set to expire at the end of 2023, leaving it unclear who will be Audi’s drivers in the debut season.
Bottas has expressed his interest at being part of the team in 2026, claiming that his experience in F1 and time with Alfa Romeo could prove vital in their debut season.
Audi have reportedly also set their sights on signing Mick Schumacher from Mercedes, with the sponsorship pull of a German driver being too good to turn down, should he be available in 2026.