Binotto wants Freddie Slater in an F1 seat ‘sooner rather than later’

Audi CEO Mattia Binotto has signalled that Freddie Slater could take on Formula 1 duties before 2027, as the team weighs the next steps in the teenager’s development.

Audi’s next opportunity

Slater has worked closely with Audi Racing Director Allan McNish, whose previous role with the team was running its junior academy. Binotto described the youngster as a high-potential driver who is progressing well, while acknowledging the late-season title outcome as a learning experience.

Teams without a full-time rookie are required to give up four FP1 sessions during the season to run a young driver. Audi has used Paul Aron in that role, sharing the Estonian with Alpine, but has completed only two of its four sessions so far. That leaves scope for Slater to get time in the R26, though Binotto did not specify when he might appear.

An F1 seat depends on progress

Binotto made clear that a race seat is not guaranteed. Slater’s future will depend on how he develops, alongside the prospects of current Audi drivers Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hulkenberg. Bortoleto is viewed as the team’s future given his age, while Hulkenberg will turn 40 midway through next season.

“When you’ve got a driver in your academy, somehow the plans are for him, sooner or later, to be in your F1 seat,” Binotto said.

He pointed to Slater’s progression across the F3 season: the driver had initially been using the tyres too aggressively, but became more balanced, managed them better and gained experience before finishing strongly. For now, Audi’s stated priority is development; an F1 opportunity will depend on what Slater delivers next.