Audi Method 1 boss Mattia Binotto has addressed latest paddock hypothesis linking Carlos Sainz and Oscar Piastri to the German producer, insisting he’s fully glad together with his present driver pairing of Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto.
Sainz held critical discussions with Audi all through 2024 as he sought a brand new seat following Ferrari’s signing of seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton. The Spanish driver finally joined Williams in 2025 and secured two podiums in his first season with the Grove outfit, however the group’s efficiency has dipped in 2026.
As Williams is battling towards main points plaguing its 2026 equipment, rumours surrounding Sainz have elevated, with some questioning whether or not he may take into account a transfer to Audi.
Extra not too long ago, McLaren’s Piastri has additionally been touted as a possible future goal for Audi if he decides to stroll away from the Woking squad or if he’s changed by four-time champion Max Verstappen.
Regardless of the rumours, Binotto insists he’s fully glad together with his present driver line-up of Hulkenberg and Bortoleto. “First, I am not studying the newspapers myself, or not studying a lot, so I am listening to from you,” Binotto advised RacingNews365, when requested in regards to the hyperlinks to Sainz and Piastri.
“Carlos is definitely an individual whom I do know very properly, and it is by some means straightforward and apparent to hyperlink him to Audi, however I can solely say that I am very pleased with the line-up now we have.
Carlos Sainz, Williams
Picture by: Clive Rose / Method 1 through Getty Photos
“Usually, when discussing Gabriel and Nico, what I hear is that it’s a good combine between expertise and, on the opposite aspect, the younger driver.
“As a substitute, I’d choose them otherwise. They’re two very quick drivers, and I’m comfortable as a result of they’re quick drivers, each of them, so we have got a great line-up.
“The truth that different drivers are linked to our group, I can solely be very pleased with as a result of it’s displaying the credibility of our venture is bettering.
“It’s displaying that the notion from the skin that in the future we are able to change into aggressive is now not a hearsay, however it’s a truth.”
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