With Mattia Binotto making his first appearance in his new role at Monza, discussions about the last available race seat in Formula 1 for 2025 are gaining momentum.
Current driver Valtteri Bottas seems to be the leading candidate to join Sauber newcomer Nico Hulkenberg next season. This will mark the final year before the team transitions to Audi works engines and undergoes a full rebranding in 2026.
"We had more discussions this week," the Finn commented. "But we're not going to sign contracts here. But it's good that there will be a leader here - the team needs that now.
"It will give me the opportunity to have a coffee with him."
However, negotiations between Bottas, 34, and the team may falter since the Swiss outfit is reportedly offering only a one-year deal for 2025.
"I'm only interested in a multi-year contract," Bottas stated. "I know that next year will probably be the most difficult year of my career, so I'm not interested in a one-season deal."
"It is important for me, at this stage of my career, to be part of a project and to understand the development plan for several years ahead."
Bottas acknowledged that his future in Formula 1 might conclude in November.
"My options are limited - that's how it is," he said. "Of course it's crossed my mind - 'What if I leave Formula 1?' But I think it's still too early to think about that."
There are whispers that Sauber might prefer to sign Liam Lawson, but Red Bull appears uninterested in the 'loan' arrangement currently on the table.
"We wanted to keep the option of him being available when we need him," Red Bull consultant Dr Helmut Marko explained to Kleine Zeitung newspaper.
"So, no, it probably won't be Sauber."
Carlos Sainz had been Audi's initial choice, but he ultimately chose Williams. "I decided to trust my gut feeling, as I always do," said the current Ferrari driver.
Bottas' teammate, Guanyu Zhou, mentioned he would be "satisfied" with a single-year agreement, although he has generally been the less impressive Sauber driver in 2024 so far.
"It wouldn't be the first time I have a one-year contract, so not much would change for me," remarked the Chinese driver.
"I don't think much will change next year, but we are getting closer to the arrival of Audi and I think that's when there could be big changes in raw performance."
Regarding the already-signed Nico Hulkenberg, he clarified he will have "no say" in Sauber and Audi's final decision.
"But to be honest, I'm open," the German, who remains with Haas, noted. "I'd like to have the best and strongest teammate possible because it's incredibly competitive in Formula 1 and therefore important to have the best duo possible."
