Rumors about the driver market in Formula 1 remain strong ahead of the Belgian GP. This time, Nico Hulkenberg responded with good humor to speculations pointing to Carlos Sainz as his possible replacement at the Audi team.
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The speculations gained strength after a complicated start to the season for both Williams and Audi. While Sainz faces difficulties in his first season with the British team, Hulkenberg is also experiencing a challenging start in the German manufacturer’s project.
During the press activities at Spa-Francorchamps, the German was asked about his future and made it clear that he sees no reason for concern. According to him, Audi is satisfied with its driver duo, made up of him and Gabriel Bortoleto.
“It’s just the typical F1 summer noise. Actually, I know the team is very happy with Gabi (Bortoleto) and me,” Hulkenberg said in an interview with GPblog. The driver also highlighted that Audi’s project is only in its first year and that the existing contracts are quite clear.
Not missing the opportunity to joke about the situation, Hulkenberg made a humorous suggestion about the Spaniard: “I read some of the rumors related to Carlos, but I think the reserve driver spot is available, although I doubt he is interested in that. On my part, there is no question mark,” said the German.
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Sainz, in turn, has also been a constant target of speculation in recent weeks. Despite rumors about a possible departure from Williams, the Spaniard has publicly reiterated that his priority is to contribute to the evolution of the British team.
In statements given earlier in Austria, the Spanish driver revealed that he asked his representatives to avoid presenting proposals until the August break: “Honestly, I am not thinking about it because I have a lot of work to do here at Williams. In the upcoming races, we will have many simulator sessions and numerous meetings, as has happened in recent months,” he added.
The Spaniard further reinforced his commitment to the Williams project: I also asked my management team to leave me alone a bit until the break, to try to help Williams and improve the situation as much as possible. After that, it will be time to think about it and analyze the options. The team knows my intentions and priorities, which are to continue in this project. I believe in the long-term vision, and now we have a lot of work to do,” he concluded.
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