Allan McNish has clarified that Mattia Binotto remains the overall head of Audi’s Formula 1 project, while also appearing to shut down speculation linking Carlos Sainz with a future move to the German manufacturer. McNish, who became Audi’s racing director after Jonathan Wheatley’s departure following the opening races of the season, explained the division of responsibilities within the team.
Friday is traditionally the day when Formula 1 team principals take questions from the media, and Allan McNish was among those present in the Belgian Grand Prix press conference. Although he is now responsible for Audi’s trackside activities, the former Scottish driver reports to Mattia Binotto, who remains the senior figure overseeing the wider programme.
Allan McNish explains Mattia Binotto’s Audi project role
“Binotto is in charge of the entire programme, while I take care of the activities here at the track, from strategy to marketing,” Allan McNish explained, outlining the clear separation of roles within Audi’s structure.
Mattia Binotto is not present at every race, but Allan McNish’s comments confirm that the former Ferrari team principal remains Audi’s top decision-maker. The racing director’s responsibilities are concentrated on the race operation and the team’s work at the circuit, while Mattia Binotto oversees the broader direction of the Formula 1 project.
Audi backs Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto
Allan McNish also offered an important indication about the driver market. In recent weeks, rumours had suggested that Audi could be interested in Carlos Sainz. The possibility was notable because of the Sainz family’s connection with the German marque: Carlos Sainz Sr won the Dakar Rally with Audi in 2024. Mattia Binotto also played an important role in bringing Carlos Sainz to Ferrari and later defending the Spanish driver during their time together at Maranello.
However, Allan McNish appeared keen to protect Audi’s current pairing of Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, stressing how well the two drivers complement one another.
“We are very fortunate with Hülkenberg and Bortoleto, because they are complementary. Nico is very experienced, while Gabi is improving a lot. For us, they are the perfect combination.”
The comments suggest that Carlos Sainz is unlikely to be part of Audi’s immediate plans. They also align with Nico Hülkenberg’s recent humorous response to speculation surrounding Carlos Sainz and Audi, with the team’s current driver line-up now receiving a clear public endorsement from Allan McNish.
For now, Audi appears focused on developing the partnership between the experience of Nico Hülkenberg and the rapid progress of Gabriel Bortoleto, while Mattia Binotto continues to lead the project from the top of the organisation.
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