P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Valtteri Bottas has addressed the recent rumours suggesting that Audi could pull the plug on its Formula 1 project for 2026.
Late last year, there were reports that Audi might cancel its plans to join the Formula 1 grid. However, Audi is still committed to entering the sport in 2026 and taking over the Sauber-owned team known as Stake. The lack of publicity surrounding Audi’s entry was due to Sauber’s partnership with Alfa Romeo, which ended last season. There has been speculation about Audi’s driver lineup, with Nico Hulkenberg being mentioned as a potential driver. Valtteri Bottas, who is currently with Mercedes, has also expressed interest in driving for Audi but is open to returning to Mercedes if Lewis Hamilton leaves for Ferrari. The cooperation between Sauber and Audi is expected to increase in the coming months as Audi prepares for its F1 debut.
