Formula 1 News: Bottas says Sauber needs big step in 2024

Valtteri Bottas is demanding “big steps over the winter” from Sauber (formerly Alfa Romeo) ahead of the 2024 F1 season.

The team is under new technical director leadership following the arrival of James Key at the start of September.

“We brought upgrades pretty consistently all through the year, like any team,” said Bottas, regarding the development of the C43. “Some were decent steps, some minor but we didn’t find anything big. It’s been steady progress, but that’s not enough.

“Meanwhile, some other teams found big steps, new concepts, innovative things. Some might be copying other teams, but we just made steady progress. In this sport, that’s not always enough.

“Ultimately, the biggest thing was how the car was born. It was born better than last year’s car, but not better enough. That’s just how it goes. There was not one thing that was lacking.”

“I feel like with the new people that we have, including James Key, there seems to be stuff happening,” said Bottas.

“He’s obviously got lots of knowledge from even this year’s McLaren, so there’s good information coming from different people, which is good to see, and that’s what we needed.

“I’m really pleased we’re trying to think a bit outside the box now, with all the new people we have on board, and that will be coming on board.

“At this point, from what I’ve seen (of the new car), I’m happy because there are differences, and that’s what we need.

“There are many question marks, it’s still early days, but at least we’re seeing progress. The last few weeks have actually been quite productive at the factory.”