F1 2023: Latest Updates on Remaining Seats at VCARB & Sauber

Only two spots are left open in Formula 1 for the 2025 season.

Visa Cash App RB and Sauber (soon to be Audi) need one more driver each, and rumors are swirling about who will get these seats.

Visa Cash App RB:

Liam Lawson almost made a return in Italy, but Williams didn’t agree to Red Bull Racing’s terms. Red Bull wanted to recall Lawson whenever they wanted, which Williams refused. So now, Franco Colapinto is Alex Albon’s teammate instead. This might seem like a setback for Lawson, but he’s still the top pick to replace Daniel Ricciardo next year.

A decision about Lawson should come soon. If Red Bull doesn’t give him a seat by mid-September, he can go anywhere he wants. If Lawson gets the spot, it’s likely the end of Ricciardo’s time at VCARB. Ricciardo is their backup plan if they change their mind about Lawson.

Sauber (Audi):

People keep asking Valtteri Bottas if he’s had coffee with Mattia Binotto, Audi’s new COO and CTO. At Monza, Bottas answered differently each day. While Bottas could stay with the team next season, it seems he isn’t Binotto and Audi’s first choice.

Gabriel Bortoleto, a rising star in Formula 2 and part of McLaren’s training program, is at the top of their list. The Brazilian wowed everyone at Monza by winning from last place. Talks between Bortoleto and Audi are ongoing. The sticking point is contract length; Bortoleto wants a two-year deal while Audi prefers just one season.

If talks fail with Bortoleto, Bottas would be the backup option. However, Bottas also wants a two-year contract, which Audi isn’t thrilled about either.

Fans might think this news is pretty exciting!

What do you think? Should Lawson get his chance or should Ricciardo stay? And what about Bottas vs. Bortoleto? Share your thoughts!