Audi Formula 1 team principal Mattia Binotto has firmly rejected speculation surrounding Nico Hülkenberg’s future, insisting the German veteran remains an integral part of the manufacturer’s long-term plans, despite recent reports suggesting his seat could be under threat.
Rumours intensified ahead of the British Grand Prix weekend, after respected German Formula 1 journalist Ralf Bach claimed Audi management had become less convinced by Hülkenberg’s performances following the Austrian Grand Prix.
However, Binotto used Saturday’s media session at Silverstone to categorically deny suggestions that the 38-year-old could be replaced, reaffirming the team’s confidence in both Nico Hülkenberg and rookie Gabriel Bortoleto.
TJ13 paddock sources at Silverstone over the weekend believe there might be some truth to Bach’s claim, in spite of Binotto’s statement to the contrary.
Binotto gives unequivocal backing to Hülkenberg
Speaking to Sky at Silverstone, Binotto left little room for interpretation when asked whether Audi was considering changes to its driver line-up.
“We’ve said we have a good driver pairing. We have a rookie and an experienced driver. We essentially have two first-choice drivers, and we’re very happy about that. Both are very fast.”
The Italian, who is overseeing Audi’s first Formula 1 campaign following its transformation from Sauber, also praised Hülkenberg’s current level of performance, despite the veteran approaching the latter stages of his career.
“Nico still has plenty of fuel in his veins. He’s focused, he’s consistent, and he still looks like a young driver. Things are going well for him, and we’re very happy about that.”
Those comments directly contradict speculation that Audi had begun exploring alternative options for 2027.
Carlos Sainz links continue despite Williams commitment
One name repeatedly linked with Audi has been Carlos Sainz, despite the Spaniard only recently beginning his Williams career.
Williams Team Principal James Vowles addressed the rumours during the British Grand Prix weekend, pointing to Sainz’s own public commitment to the Grove-based outfit.
“Carlos said yesterday: Williams? That’s where I want to be, that’s where I want to end my career. Those are his words, not mine.”
Vowles also acknowledged the unpredictable nature of Formula 1’s driver market.
“But in this sport, you can never be sure, even if you have a contract.”
While Sainz has previously held discussions with Audi, before ultimately signing for Williams, there is currently no concrete indication that a move is under active consideration.
Audi’s debut Formula 1 season has brought expected challenges
Audi’s first season as a full Formula 1 constructor has proven challenging, but largely in line with internal expectations.
The team has experienced reliability issues and inconsistent performances across the opening eight rounds, including four retirements between Hülkenberg and Bortoleto. Nevertheless, Audi currently occupies ninth place in the Constructors’ Championship, as it continues developing both its chassis and operational structure ahead of future campaigns.
With the project still in its infancy, stability has been viewed as an important component of Audi’s long-term strategy.
While Formula 1’s driver market can shift rapidly, Audi’s F1 team leadership has made its current position unmistakably clear. Both Hülkenberg and Bortoleto retain the team’s full confidence, as the manufacturer continues laying the foundations for its long-term ambitions in Formula 1.
As our sources and Bach’s comments indicate, however, the official line being towed by Binotto may not be the whole truth on the topic.
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The Judge, a nom de plume of an experienced F1 journalist and site founder with long-standing sources across the paddock. With over 30 years of experience in Formula 1 as an insider journalist, I have built trusted connections across the paddock, from race engineers and mechanics to senior team figures. At The Judge 13, I and a handful of trusted colleagues share exclusive Formula 1 news, expert analysis and behind-the-scenes stories you will not find in mainstream motorsport media.
