P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The change of senior management at Audi’s Formula 1 team could be significant for the driver market as new boss Mattia Binotto takes over negotiations that affect every other vacancy
The change in senior management at Audi’s Formula 1 team, with Mattia Binotto taking over negotiations, can have a significant impact on the driver market.
Nico Hulkenberg is the only driver committed to Sauber, which will become Audi’s fully-owned works team in 2026.
With Andreas Seidl and Oliver Hoffmann ousted, Binotto will hold a dual role as chief operating officer/chief technical officer, aiming to fulfill Audi’s ambitions for Sauber.
Seidl’s long-term target, Carlos Sainz, had been considered by Audi, but the deal seems uncertain due to performance issues and doubts surrounding the project.
Sainz appreciates Binotto’s experience in building top teams and believes it could benefit Audi, although he has not made his final decision yet.
Binotto’s arrival brings a new perspective to negotiations for both Sauber and Sainz, with the driver market remaining fluid and options open for all parties involved.
