Exciting News: The F1 Racing Team Secures Its 2025 Driver Lineup!

The Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber has officially confirmed the signing of Nico Hulkenberg on a multi-year contract that will commence in 2025. This strategic move leaves only one seat available in their competitive Formula 1 roster, setting the stage for a dynamic future for the team.

Uncertainty has surrounded the futures of current drivers Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu, but that veil has now been lifted. It was announced early on Wednesday (November 6) that both drivers will depart from the team following the conclusion of the 2024 season, a decision made after a challenging year for the squad.

Continue reading for the latest updates and insights!

In a statement from the Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, they expressed gratitude towards both Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu: “After open and constructive discussions with both drivers, we mutually concluded that the conditions to continue our partnership could not be met. Therefore, we agreed it was time to part ways. We sincerely thank both for their invaluable contributions to the team over the last three years, where they have exemplified professionalism while using their experience and enthusiasm to support our growth.”

Valtteri Bottas shared his sentiments via an Instagram video, stating, “After three years at @stakef1team, we decided to part ways. I want to take this opportunity to thank each and every member of the team, all my colleagues, and especially the fans for their unwavering support. I am excited about what lies ahead!”

There are rumors circulating that he may be aiming for a return to Mercedes as a reserve driver, which could signal a new chapter in his illustrious career.

Meanwhile, Zhou Guanyu expressed his gratitude on Instagram as well, announcing, “I will be departing from the Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber at the conclusion of the 2024 season. I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the fans for their incredible support. You all inspire me, and I take immense pride in being the first Chinese driver to represent my country in Formula 1. I have accomplished many milestones under challenging conditions, including scoring points in my debut race, achieving the fastest lap, and engaging in thrilling battles on the grid. While the last two seasons have been tough, I remain optimistic and focused on showcasing my capabilities. I am currently exploring multiple options to remain within the Formula 1 paddock and will keep you all updated.”

It’s noteworthy that both Valtteri and Zhou are the only drivers on the 2024 grid who have not yet scored any points this season, highlighting the competitive nature of the sport.

In addition, it has been announced that the talented 20-year-old Brazilian Gabriel Bortoleto, the reigning Formula 3 champion and current leader in the F2 standings, has signed a multi-year deal as the second driver for the Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber starting in 2025.

Sauber COO and CTO Mattia Binotto stated, “Gabriel has already shown in junior categories that he possesses the skill and determination needed to be a winning driver. We are thrilled to welcome him to the Sauber and Audi family. Together with Gabriel, we are embarking on a journey toward success, aiming to evolve into a unified force that will shape a new era for Audi in motorsport. Nico and Gabriel represent the perfect blend of experience and youthful energy, positioning us strongly for the future.”

Gabriel Bortoleto shared his excitement, saying, “This is one of the most thrilling projects in motorsport, if not in all of sports. Joining a team with the storied history of Sauber and Audi is a tremendous honor. I aspire to contribute meaningfully to this ambitious project and ultimately reach the pinnacle of motorsport. I am sincerely grateful for this opportunity and look forward to working alongside a seasoned driver like Nico. Both teams have a commendable track record of fostering young talent, and I am confident that together, we will craft our own success story.”

For those who may not be aware, the Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber will transition to become Audi in 2026, marking a significant evolution in their branding and operations!

As it stands, there is only one seat remaining on the 2025 Formula 1 grid with the Visa Cash App RB team, where Yuki Tsunoda is currently the sole driver confirmed for next year.

Stay tuned for all the latest updates regarding the 2025 Formula 1 driver grid!