Alex Albon Predicts Tight Battle Between Bortoleto and Colapinto

Alex Albon has hinted at a close competition between Gabriel Bortoleto and Franco Colapinto for a seat at Sauber ahead of the 2025 F1 season. With Sauber preparing for its final season before transitioning into the Audi works team, and Valtteri Bottas yet to confirm an extension with the team, speculation has intensified over who will claim the available spot.

The Candidates for Sauber’s 2025 Seat

Gabriel Bortoleto, the current Formula 2 Championship leader and member of the McLaren driver programme, is widely rumored to be on Audi F1 chief Mattia Binotto’s shortlist for the 2025 grid. Bortoleto’s impressive performances have placed him in strong contention for a step up to F1, and many believe he is a leading candidate to join Sauber.

However, Franco Colapinto, who replaced Logan Sargeant at Williams, is also reportedly in the running. According to Albon, Colapinto is very much a part of the battle for the coveted seat.

Albon’s Take on the Situation

When asked by Motorsport.com’s Brazilian edition about Bortoleto’s chances of securing the seat, Albon acknowledged the competition:

“I don’t know, but it’s going to be a tight battle. I think Franco will also be involved in this fight.”