Audi make announcement over 2025 F1 driver plans as Valtteri Bottas sweats over future

Valtteri Bottas has yet to extend his contract with Kick Sauber and the Formula 1 team have just one driver’s spot remaining as Ausi boss Mattia Binotta meets with Mick SchumacherAudi boss Mattia Binotto has revealed that he told Mick Schumacher that nothing had been decided yet over Kick Sauber’s final driver for 2025.The Formula 1 constructor are making their preparations ahead of Audi’s arrival in the sport and takeover of the team. Audi are set to complete a 100 per cent takeover of Sauber’s operations in time for 2026, with former Ferrari boss Binotto hired as as Chief Operating and Chief Technical Officer.Nico Hulkenberg has already taken one seat for next season’s F1 championship as he joins the team from Haas, but a second seat remains vacant. Valterri Bottas has enjoyed talks over extending his stay but Schumacher, son of Michael, has emerged as a contender for the position.The 25-year-old, who last raced for Haas in 2022 but has worked for Mercedes and McLaren as a reserve driver, met with Binotto in Austin. Despite talks of an agreement with Bottas, he assured the prospect that a decision was yet to be made.“I told him that nothing has been decided yet,” Binotto told Sky Italia before confirming Schumacher was on his shortlist. “But I can’t say anything more at the moment.”Veteran racer Bottas believes he warrants a place in the team next season and beyond. The Finnish star has conceded his future remains uncertain despite confidence in his ability.”Of course I know that the situation is risky for me because there is only one seat left,” said Bottas in Austin. “I love Formula 1 and want to stay. I’m trying to stay positive. Because I believe that I belong in the Audi cockpit!”