Carlos Sainz has denied a report that he turned down a proposal from Audi as his future in Formula 1 from 2025 remains unresolved ahead of the Miami Grand Prix.
Sainz is searching for a seat to retain his place on the F1 grid following Ferrari’s decision to sign seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton to replace him from next term.
The Spaniard has been linked with both Mercedes and Red Bull, but the latter’s advisor, Helmut Marko, has disclosed he has a “lucrative” offer on the table from Audi.
Audi will venture into F1 for the first time in 2026 when it completes a full takeover of the Sauber-owned squad when brand-new technical regulations are introduced.
But while it has been touted the German marque is targeting Sainz as its top target, Spanish media stated that the Ferrari driver has not responded to the set deadline.
Asked in Miami whether that report was true, Sainz told media including Motorsport Week: “No, that’s not correct. There’s no truth about it. Nothing to add.”
Sainz’s father, Carlos Sr, has an existing association with Audi that includes winning the illustrious Dakar Ralli for a fourth time with the automotive brand in January.
The three-time winner has admitted he is undecided on whether to hedge his long-term bets on Audi but conceded that he expects the brand to become competitive.
Pressed on whether Sainz Sr’s experience with Audi could lead him in that direction, he said: “Oh, for sure, my Dad you will always hear him say good things about Audi.
“The project and how confident he is that Audi will make it to the top in Formula 1.
“And if you follow the Volkswagen projects, every time they’ve been involved in motorsports – it doesn’t matter if it’s with Porsche, with Audi, all over the Volkswagen group – they’ve managed to win. And I think that’s a very important asset, that’s something very important to consider.
“But in my decision and everything there’s a lot more factors involved.
“I really hope Audi in the future can fight for the win, because it would just mean one more car fighting for wins and a massive brand like they are.
“I wish them the best, without having decided if that’s a possibility for me or not.”
Sauber announced earlier this week it has signed Haas’ Nico Hulkenberg on a multi-term deal to represent the Hinwil-based squad as it prepares to evolve into Audi.
Amid rumours that Audi could look elsewhere to partner the veteran German, Sainz has revealed he has received no guarantee that the marque’s interest will remain.
“The only assurance that I have, is from myself that I want to take the right decision,” he disclosed.
“That’s why it’s also taking a bit longer and that’s why I want to see all the options available before taking any fundamental decision.
“I think Nico joining Audi makes complete sense for them and for Nico, and I think he’s a great driver that I’ve managed to see his talent.
“And I think he’s a great signing for them and I congratulate them because he’s been doing great at Haas.”
Discussion about this post