Stake F1 is still preparing its transformation into Audi for 2026, and Alessandro Alunni Bravi, the project representative, explains that the team wants above all to look for a driver who is committed to the long term. Several candidates are being considered, but the watchword on Hinwil’s side is clearly stability.
“I think as far as the driver duo is concerned, we have been quite clear” said the Italian. “Audi will enter Formula 1 in 2026, we will be the Audi factory team, but this is the start of a long journey towards Formula 1, therefore the first step of a long and important project for the Audi Volkswagen group.”
“And of course we are talking with many drivers, including Carlos Sainz. This is of course the most important for people, especially here in Spain. But we want drivers who commit long term with us, we want pilots who will begin this long journey with us.”
“It’s one of the things we discuss with every driver, and of course the decision is coming, because we want everyone to know exactly who will be with us next year, in the next seasons.”
“Because we also have to start working on next year’s car and the drivers are an important part. But I think the starting point for us is that we want a driver who will be committed to us for the long term. term.”
Alunni Bravi confirms that Audi is looking for experienced driver profiles, like Sainz, or like Nico Hülkenberg: “I think that drivers like Carlos, like Nico Hülkenberg who we have hired, can bring a lot, a lot of things, experience, raw speed, motivation.”
“But there are also other drivers on the market with these characteristics. I think the level of Formula 1 is very high and we aim to improve our performance, especially thanks to the driver, who is always the most important differentiator in performance.”
“I don’t want to talk only about Carlos, because that would not be respectful to all the other drivers we are discussing. They have the same characteristics – speed, experience and talent to be part of an important project.
