Bottas expects culture change at Audi: 'But then it doesn't matter'

Valtteri Bottas no longer manages to match the performance of his Mercedes era. For that, the Alfa Romeo lacks the speed. However, the Finn does not become despondent. Bottas has often indicated that he feels comfortable with the Swiss team. Of course, he needs to perform, but the pressure is different than at Mercedes.

Bottas still has a 2024 commitment at Sauber. Meanwhile, there are also - increasingly strong - rumours about Carlos Sainz who could swap Ferrari for Sauber, which is the factory Audi team from 2026. In short, Bottas' long-term future is uncertain.

"We still haven’t spoken about '26," Bottas said in a conversation with GPblog and others. "I think those discussions are probably going to be had next year. So I think naturally, when nothing is confirmed for some years after, there's always speculation. Let's see. It's still a bit early for anyone to come into '26." And that Sainz is mentioned? "Yeah, but you know, there are always rumours."

Once Audi has finally incorporated the team, that will change Sauber at its core. "No doubt it will get more corporate with the big brand coming in. But if that brings results, then I don't mind," said Bottas, who will not change himself. "I don't feel like I need to change myself. I am who I am, and I want to be who I am always. But of course, with a bigger company, some things that I share on social media, I might have to do a second thought on things. But that's okay, as long as I can still have my fun, which I believe is good for me."