Jul.5 (GMM) Audi boss Mattia Binotto has moved to end speculation that Nico Hulkenberg could lose his seat at the end of the 2026 season.
Rumours in the Silverstone paddock suggested Audi could revive its interest in Carlos Sainz, whose future at Williams has become the subject of increasing speculation amid the team’s stalled progress.
Binotto, however, insisted Audi remains committed to its current driver pairing.
“We’ve said we have a good driver pairing,” he told Sky Deutschland.
“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 comments come despite a difficult start to the season for Audi, with Hulkenberg still without a point and Brazilian Bortoleto with only 2 on the board.
Binotto also rejected suggestions that the 38-year-old German’s performances have raised concerns within the team.
“Nico still has plenty of fuel in his veins,” he said.
“He’s focused, he’s consistent, and he still looks like a young driver. He’s doing well, and we’re very happy about that.”
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