The brand new F1 team from Audi has attracted the interest of several top drivers, according to former Haas team principal Günther Steiner. The German racing team made its debut this year after taking over Sauber. Audi is currently in eighth place in the championship at the time of the summer break, but has scored points in the last three Grands Prix. Especially for George Russell and Carlos Sainz, the team could be an interesting option in the long term.
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“There is a lot of interest from drivers to go to Audi in 2028,” Steiner responded in The Red Flags podcast. “For next year they are pretty much set, but in 2028 opportunities may arise at Audi.” The team strengthened itself last year with Formula 2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto and veteran Nico Hülkenberg. Especially during the last few races, both scored good points.
Audi is an interesting place
“Audi is quite an interesting destination because they are making good progress,” Steiner explained. “The whole team seems to be pretty much on schedule. I also think there would be quite a few candidates if a seat becomes available. You can bet that Carlos Sainz will put himself forward.” Everything indicates that the team will continue to work with the just 21-year-old Bortoleto in the future, but Nico Hülkenberg may eventually have to make way for a younger driver.
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“I think George (Russell, ed.) is also looking around now, knowing that he is driving alongside Kimi (Antonelli, ed.),” Steiner continued. “He doesn’t want to be stuck with Kimi for the rest of his life, because then he knows he will only play second fiddle. So he is looking for new opportunities.” There are many similarities between Audi and Mercedes: both are large German car manufacturers investing heavily in Formula 1. However, Russell might be able to shape the team more to his liking at Audi.
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