Sauber (Audi) recently confirmed that Nico Hülkenberg will drive for them from next year. A second rider is now being sought.
Sauber director Alessandro Alunni Bravi has outlined that Carlos Sainz is their favourite. But he would have greatly offended himself. This year he won the race, he is fighting for the podiums. Sauber has yet to score a point this year. From 2026, however, the team will become a factory Audi.
“Everyone knows there is a top driver available in the market, which is Carlos Sainz,” Alunni Bravi told Motorsport.com.
“I think everyone would like to have Carlos in the team. He is one of the best riders. He is proving to be extremely mature, a good driver for the development of the car, but at the same time very consistent, very strong both in qualifying and in the race. I think Ferrari has one of the best driving pairs.”
“We are talking to Sainz and other drivers. Also with our current riders. We are in no rush as we have now secured one of the two spots. Now we can have more time. The decision is not easy. Of course we have two good drivers who have been with us for three years and who are performing well.”
“Carlos is here, there are other drivers and we have to understand that because we are making a decision that not only affects 2025 but also the future of the Audi factory team. Therefore, I would say that the length of the contract is important, what could be the combination… the composition of the riders. It’s not just one rider’s decision. All options are on the table, starting with our current two riders and finding one that could fit into the overall project.”
