Audi is set to take over the Sauber team and change its entire structure starting in 2026. The German manufacturer has already announced their team principal and appointed Mattia Binotto as Chief Technical Officer. They had also considered Carlos Sainz for their driver in 2026, but the Spaniard signed a multi-year contract with Williams instead. However, they now plan to focus on Daniel Ricciardo and Sergio Perez.
It was predicted that Red Bull might drop Sergio Perez after the recent Belgian GP due to his run of poor performances. However, Milton Keynes decided not to and continued the season with the Mexican. Daniel Ricciardo was selected as one of the drivers to replace Checo and pair up with Max Verstappen. However, RB also decided to retain the Australian ahead of the Dutch GP.
As per Auto Motor und Sport, Perez and Ricciardo could be considered by Audi if they are released by Red Bull at the end of 2024. This was because Audi is considering who will partner up Nico Hulkenberg, as their option Carlos Sainz signed another contract. Audi is looking for experienced drivers, and the Australian and Mexican fit the category. The Four Rings have already hired Jonathan Wheatley from Red Bull as their team principal. They are now seeking to hire another Red Bull member, making Ricciardo and Perez possible options.
Audi could also be interested in rising talent Liam Lawson
Honestly for the 2026 season, Audi has a lot of options to consider. Apart from looking for Perez and Ricciardo, the German manufacturer’s other target is Red Bull’s reserve driver Liam Lawson. They considered the New Zealander as an option because of an impressive run in mid 2023 replacing Ricciardo due to injury. Lawson has a clause in his contract that allows him to leave Milton Keynes completely if he doesn’t get a permanent seat with either Red Bull or VCARB. So it is anticipated that, If they don’t act quickly, The 22-year-old could choose to join another team, possibly Audi, if they’re interested.
Therefore, Red Bull must quickly decide on Sergio Perez and Liam Lawson. If the team chooses to keep Perez, Lawson would leave and sign with Audi. However, if the situation turns out differently, Perez, whom Audi is interested in, would secure a seat with them. Thus, the outcome ultimately favors Audi, as they stand to benefit either way.
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