Binotto dismisses Sainz Audi links as current lineup earns backing for 2027

Audi plays down Carlos Sainz speculation

Audi Formula 1 project chief Mattia Binotto has played down suggestions that Carlos Sainz could join the team in 2027, insisting he remains satisfied with the current pairing of Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hulkenberg.

Sainz is an obvious name to connect with Audi. The Spanish driver held serious discussions with the manufacturer after Ferrari signed Lewis Hamilton as his replacement in 2024. He ultimately joined Williams for the 2025 season, scoring two podiums during his debut campaign with the British team.

Williams’ form has since slipped. After 11 races in 2026, the team has collected 11 points, with Sainz contributing six. That difficult start has fuelled speculation about his next move, with the driver expected to decide his future during the summer break. Recent reporting has also examined the uncertainty surrounding Sainz’s 2027 Williams future.

Speaking to the media, Binotto said the rumours were new to him and rejected the idea that Audi was actively seeking a change.

“First, I’m not reading the newspapers myself, or not reading much, so I’m hearing from you,” Binotto said.

“Carlos is certainly a person whom I know very well, and it’s somehow easy and obvious to link him to Audi, but I can only say that I’m very happy with the lineup we have.”

Audi backs Bortoleto and Hulkenberg

Binotto said Audi’s driver combination was often described as a balance between experience and youth. He argued, however, that the more important quality was the pace offered by both drivers.

“Often, when discussing Gabriel and Nico, what I hear is that it is a good mix between experience and, on the other side, the young driver,” he said.

“Instead, I would judge them differently. They are two very fast drivers, and I am happy because they are fast drivers, both of them, so we’ve got a good line-up.”

Audi entered Formula 1 at the start of the 2026 season after taking over Sauber. Binotto believes the very existence of the Sainz speculation reflects growing confidence in the project rather than an immediate need to alter its plans.

“The fact that other drivers are linked to our team, I can only be very happy with because it is showing the credibility of our project is improving,” he said.

For now, Audi’s stated position is clear: Bortoleto and Hulkenberg remain the preferred lineup, while Sainz’s options continue to generate attention ahead of his summer decision.