In 2026, Audi will make its debut in Formula 1 as a powertrain supplier, with Sauber becoming the factory team. Sauber Motorsport AG chief operating and technical director Mattia Binotto said the team will not be able to compete in the leading group until 2030.
Mattia Binotto: “We are at the beginning of the journey. Everest is before us, and we are at its foundation. The company decided to climb this mountain, but it is important to correctly pave the way to the top. If we compare it with our rivals, we now have about 400 fewer people. The team needs to expand its staff to compete at the same level with opponents. But you cannot find that many employees in two days, certainly not in Formula 1. That is why we have decided to invest in young people.
Other teams took years to reach the top. Jean Todt came to Maranello in 1993 and Ferrari won the first Constructors’ Championship with him in 1999. Mercedes had the same schedule. It takes five to seven years to achieve success. We expect to be among the leaders by 2030.”
When asked about Sauber’s 2025 line-up, Mattia Binotto said the team is still thinking about Mick Schumacher: “We can afford to take our time because other teams have already made their choice. We have two main options: on the one hand, an experienced rider who will lead us on the path to growth, on the other, a young and talented rider who can accompany us on our way to the top.
We’re definitely considering Mick. I met and spoke to him. I have known Mick since he was a member of the Ferrari Racing Academy. I know its strengths and benefits. He’s one of the people we’re watching.”
Source: F1 News
I am Christopher Clyde, an experienced journalist and content writer with a passion for sports. I have been writing about Formula 1 news for the past five years and am currently employed as an author at athletistic.com, one of the top sports websites in the US.
