Nico Hülkenberg responds to the ongoing rumors about a possible move of Carlos Sainz to Audi. The Spaniard was in talks with the German team before starting at Williams, but then decided to go to the British team. However, Williams is struggling this season to consistently score championship points, which fuels the rumors about a possible interest from Sainz in a move to Audi. “The reserve driver spot is still open,” Hülkenberg responds with a wink.
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The rumor mill in the Formula 1 paddock is not only working overtime for Max Verstappen and his future at Red Bull, but also for Carlos Sainz and his further F1 career at Williams, with several question marks being raised. The Madrilenian joined the British team in 2025 and surprised by immediately achieving two podiums that same season. Williams is struggling a season later to consistently finish in the top ten.
‘The usual F1 rumors’
One of the teams linked to Sainz is Audi. The Spaniard reportedly declined the seat after his announced departure from Ferrari to join Williams. Nico Hülkenberg – current driver at the German team – puts the speculation into perspective. “These are just the usual F1 rumors heading into the summer break, I think,” said the German driver in Spa. “I am sure the team is very happy with Gabi (Bortoleto, ed.) and myself.”
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“We are just at the beginning. It is our first year as a team,” Hülkenberg continues. “Moreover, the contracts are very clear. I have read the rumors about Carlos. The reserve driver spot is still open, although I doubt he would be interested in that,” he says with a wink. “So in that respect, I have no doubts.”
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