F1 boss steps in to block 2024 driver move as team slammed for 'lacking courage'
Haas boss Guenther Steiner blocked Alfa Romeo’s attempts to poach Nico Hulkenberg for the 2024 season.
The Italian constructors' sponsorship of Sauber is set to come to an end ahead of next term. Their final season of the partnership has seen them struggle and they currently sit second-bottom of the constructor’s standings with just ten points from 15 races so far
Alfa Romeo's best finish being came with Bottas’ eighth place at the Bahrain Grand Prix right at the start of the campaign. That has led to suggestions that they could look to alter their line-up ahead of next season.
Various reports have suggested that they could target Hülkenberg and attempt to cancel Bottas’ current deal. However, there have been a few roadblocks to a deal getting done.
Firstly, it was deemed too expensive to terminate the remainder of the Finn’s deal according to Blick. It was also suggested that Steiner put a veto on Hulkenberg’s move to Alfa Romeo. Instead, the team have decided to retain current options Bottas and Guanyu Zhou. The latter has penned a deal for 2024.
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Speaking after the news was confirmed, he said: “Signing again with the team is always a great feeling, especially when we know how things are shaping up. I am proud to be part of Alfa Romeo and grateful for their trust.
Sauber's attempts to sign Nico Hulkenberg were rejected (Getty Images)Did Alfa Romeo make the right decision for 2024? Share your thoughts in the comments below
“I have been working extremely hard since day one and there is an incredible level of motivation to keep doing so every day forward. My relationship with Valtteri is really good, and we are working closely together and with the team to push everyone forward.
“I am also very excited about the opportunity to finally race with my team in China, in front of my home crowd. It will be a great moment and I’m proud to be able to share it with all those who have supported me.”
Meanwhile, Bottas said: “I have a feeling we have an exciting journey ahead of us, so I am happy and grateful to be able to look forward to 2024 knowing how the team is shaping up.
“There is a good atmosphere within our squad, I get along with Zhou and we both push each other hard to improve. There is an impressive amount of work going on behind the scenes, in Hinwil and beyond, and now that the line-up is set for next year, we can focus fully on improving, starting this weekend in Singapore already.”
The decision to retain both has still raised a few eyebrows. Well known Formula One journalist Roger Benoit has accused the team of lacking courage, particularly with 2022 F2 champion Felipe Drugovich waiting in the wings in reserve.
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