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Audi Formula 1 project chief Mattia Binotto has detailed the rejection of the offer made to Carlos Sainz to drive for the team, intimating his father Carlos Sr favoured the German team.
Audi Formula 1 project chief Mattia Binotto explained the rejection of Carlos Sainz’s offer to drive for the team, hinting that Sainz’s father preferred the German team. Sainz had to find a new drive for 2025 after his Ferrari career was cut short when Lewis Hamilton was signed in 2024. Despite interest from various teams, including Audi, Sainz chose Williams to help lead their resurgence. Binotto, who knew Sainz from Ferrari, highlighted the trust factor as a reason for pursuing him. Ultimately, Sainz’s decision to join Williams resulted in their improvement in the Constructors’ Championship standings. Binotto expressed respect for Sainz’s choice and noted that the rejection led to Audi signing Gabriel Bortoleto.
