In the lead-up to Zandvoort’s F1 restart, whispers swirl about Vettel and others joining Audi F1.
In this final week before the F1 season resumes at Zandvoort in a few days, numerous rumours have been circulating about drivers potentially transferring to Audi F1.
Starting with Sebastian Vettel! The German has reportedly been recontacted by Mattia Binotto according to several consistent sources. Vettel is well-acquainted with Binotto from his time at Ferrari. However, it was also Binotto who abruptly ended Vettel’s tenure in red by hiring Carlos Sainz as his replacement.
So, what credibility should be given to such a comeback? For Dr. Helmut Marko, who has also been in contact with Vettel in recent months, these rumours suggesting that Vettel might seriously be on the verge of returning to Formula 1 with Audi should be downplayed.
“It’s no longer a secret that Sebastian has asked one or two top teams for a seat. As for Audi, I’ve already spoken in general about the positive impact of having a German driver and I also mentioned Mick Schumacher. But that name seems to have been forgotten and they already have Nico Hülkenberg.”
Marko admits that Vettel, who won his four titles with Red Bull before moving to Ferrari and Aston Martin, has reached out to Red Bull and Mercedes.
“Sebastian has been away for two years. Nico Hülkenberg had been away even longer, but he isn’t a four-time world champion, so he’s even hungrier. And to be honest: Sebastian alongside Max (Verstappen) at Red Bull – I wouldn’t want to subject him to that.”
Another more logical candidate is mentioned: the reigning Formula 2 champion and Sauber / Stake F1 reserve driver, Théo Pourchaire. However, the Frenchman doesn’t believe he was seriously considered for a Formula 1 promotion by his team.
Pourchaire clinched the F2 title last year after making his debut in the series two years earlier at the age of 17. However, he has not secured a spot in F1 this year and does not appear to be at the top of his team’s list, which will become Audi F1.
“It’s tough because I won the F2, which is the last step before F1. Everyone in the F1 paddock looks at Formula 2 drivers, those who will be racing in F1 in the coming years. But while I felt considered, it wasn’t to that extent, and that hurts quite a bit.”
Théo ventured to Japan’s Super Formula at the start of the year, then made six appearances with McLaren’s IndyCar team as a substitute. He remains hopeful for a chance to race in F1.
“I think the door isn’t closed yet, but you know, it’s Formula 1; you never know what can happen in the world of Formula 1. Crazy things happen. So, I believe I probably deserve a chance, at least a chance to show what I can do.”
He stated that he does not consider IndyCar “a Plan B” and has had discussions about returning next year to the American series.
“I’ve had discussions with other teams, mostly looking ahead to next season. Because if I don’t have an opportunity in Formula 1, IndyCar is really something I want to pursue.”
At Audi F1, Pourchaire is not the favorite, but another IndyCar driver, Alex Palou, has been mentioned in recent rumors surrounding the team.
The Spaniard, however, has denied these rumors.
“It’s all false. I know you can’t just take my word for it, but I promise you. Everything is false regarding links to an Audi seat. I haven’t had any contact with Audi. Zero.”
Additionally, Palou specified that his manager Roger Yasukawa had also not been in contact with Audi.
“Zero on that front as well. I know you can’t take it as the truth, but I haven’t contacted Audi F1. I’m not going to say much, but I’m not trying to get into F1 anymore. I tried. I had a little taste, it was fun, I learned, but it didn’t happen, and I’m okay with that.”
“I’m not desperate to the point of sending an email to Audi like, ‘Hey, I know we’re not in contact, but can we talk?’. If they’re interested in me, they’ll reach out.”
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Audi F1 Rumour Mill: Vettel Pourchaire Palou Linked Audi F1 Rumour Mill: Vettel Pourchaire Palou Linked
