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Sauber boss Jonathan Wheatley has stated he would ideally like to sign Max Verstappen for the forthcoming Audi Formula 1 team in the future.
Sauber boss Jonathan Wheatley expressed his desire to sign Max Verstappen for the Audi Formula 1 team in the future. Despite rumors of a potential move to Mercedes, Verstappen decided to stay with Red Bull for 2026 due to the upcoming technical regulations. Wheatley, who previously worked with Red Bull, knows Verstappen well and values his talent as a driver.
As Sauber transitions into Audi for 2026, Wheatley plans to maintain the current driver lineup of Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. While Wheatley acknowledges Verstappen’s appeal, he believes it’s premature to consider such fantasy signings for the team. Audi is gearing up for its F1 debut in 2026, recently unveiling its livery for the inaugural season. Wheatley emphasized his longstanding friendship with Verstappen and his team, but he does not see a direct link between Verstappen and an Audi F1 seat at this time.
