Audi’s impending entry into Formula 1 as a constructor in 2026 has turned the Sauber team into a hot prospect in the driver market. Despite a tough start to the 2024 season, team representative Alessandro Alunni Bravi highlights the allure of Audi’s future involvement, sparking interest among drivers.
Between the lines
- Audi’s 2026 F1 entry is already influencing the driver market, with Sauber becoming an attractive team for negotiations.
- Current on-track struggles and pit stop issues haven’t deterred driver interest, thanks to Audi’s anticipated investment and transformation of the team.
- Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko’s comments on Carlos Sainz’s negotiations hint at the competitive offers Audi might be making.
- Alunni Bravi emphasizes the team’s focus on improving performance and scoring points before finalizing any future driver lineup.
Go deeper
Despite a challenging start to the 2024 season, with no points scored in the first five races, Sauber’s future looks bright as Audi’s takeover looms. The German automaker’s entry into the sport has created a buzz, suggesting a significant boost in resources and potential for the team. This has not gone unnoticed by the drivers, who are already considering their options for the future.
The team’s current issues, particularly with pit stops, have been a source of frustration for drivers Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu. However, the promise of Audi’s backing seems to outweigh current hardships, positioning Sauber as a serious contender in the driver market. Alunni Bravi’s comments reflect a strategic patience, prioritizing immediate performance improvements over hasty driver market decisions.
Helmut Marko’s remarks about Carlos Sainz’s discussions with Audi underscore the competitive nature of F1’s driver market. While Alunni Bravi refrains from confirming such talks, it’s clear that the prospect of driving for an Audi-backed team is enticing for many in the paddock.
Alunni Bravi’s stance is clear: the team’s immediate goal is to provide their drivers with a competitive car and start scoring points. This focus on performance is seen as the first step towards a successful future, which will naturally lead to a more strategic approach in the driver market.
In conclusion, while the specifics of negotiations remain confidential, Sauber’s transformation into an Audi-run team has undoubtedly made them a player to watch. With the team’s commitment to improvement and the promise of Audi’s involvement, the future looks promising for Sauber, both on the track and in the negotiating room.
