Audi, which is preparing to enter Formula 1 in 2026, is still considering the choice of its driver duo for the 2025 season.
The last wheel available alongside Nico Hülkenberg at Sauber, future Audi team, is the subject of much speculation. The team led by Mattia Binotto has not yet made a decision on the strategy to adopt: favoring an experienced driver or bet on youth.
Binotto, who succeeded Andreas Seidl as head of Audi’s F1 project, is taking the time to evaluate the different possibilities. As head of the Audi project, he must decide which driver profile would be most suitable, not only for the 2025 season, but also with a view to future years.
Alessandro Alunni Bravi, representative of the team, explained this approach in a recent interview.
“It’s not just about filling the last seat availablehe said. It is crucial to find a perfect balance between short, medium and long term. The question is whether to rely on an experienced driver or a young talent capable of becoming an Audi factory driver.”
Valtteri Bottas, the favorite for 2025?
If Audi opts for experience, Valtteri Bottas appears to be the ideal candidate. The Finn, former Mercedes driver and currently at Alfa Romeo, has shown solid performances and has great experience in F1.
However, the main sticking point lies in the duration of the contract. Bottas, who sees himself more as a long-term pillar, would like a minimum two-year commitment, while Audi could see it as a temporary solution.
“Valtteri has always been at the top of the listconfirms Well done students. He has brought a lot to the team since his arrival. He scored the majority of points for us in 2022, proving his effectiveness.”
Youth on the horizon: Théo Pourchaire and Gabriel Bortoleto
However, Audi is not closing the door to the new generation. Two young talents particularly stand out: the Frenchman Théo Pourchaire and the Brazilian Gabriel Bortoleto.
Both are part of the discussions, and Audi could choose one of them as part of its long-term strategy. Sauber Academy member Pourchaire is often cited as a logical choice, while Bortoleto has recently made a splash in Formula 2.
“Théo is a serious candidateadmet Well done students.
But we have to think about what is best for him as part of our overall plan. He had opportunities in IndyCar with McLaren this year, and although he wasn’t able to continue that, he remains a promising driver.”
The decision is approaching, but nothing is decided yet
While other teams like Mercedes and Alpine are banking on their young talents with Kimi Antonelli and Jack Doohan, Audi is at a crossroads. The choice of the second pilot for 2025 must meet complex requirements: ensuring good immediate performance while laying the foundations for long-term success.
“We already have an excellent driver in Nico Hülkenbergsouligne Well done students. The decision on his future teammate is getting closer, but Mattia is still working very hard to evaluate all available options.
Audi is therefore faced with a dilemma: strengthen its team with an experienced driver like Bottas, or prepare for the future with a young hopeful like Pourchaire or Bortoleto. One thing is certain, the final decision will be crucial for the future of the brand with the rings in F1.
