F1 Today | Sauber fixated on one driver, Ferrari to test upgrades

Carlos Sainz has been announced as Sauber's key target for Audi in 2026, Ferrari have revealed they are set to follow McLaren by introducing new upgrades in Imola, and Mercedes have shared it will be some time before they introduce theirs. Oliver Bearman also celebrated his 19th birthday today, and joked how life used to be easier.

Sainz is top priority for Audi in 2026

Since it was announced in February that Sainz was set to be replaced by Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari, many have wondered where he would go next. Recently, Sauber confirmed they had signed Haas driver Nico Hulkenberg for 2025, and then in 2026 with Audi. Now, Alessandro Alunni Bravi, Sauber's managing director and Stake F1 teamrepresentative, has at least confirmed that Sainz is Sauber's favourite candidate for a seat at Audi.

"All teams have a shortlist! Everybody knows that there is a top driver that is available in the market, it's Carlos Sainz,” he told Motorsport.com. 

Ferrari have an extensive test day planned

The Italian team, which sits second in the Constructors' Championship, are set to bring major upgrades to Imola next week to battle against Red Bull. According to Formu1a.uno, the new version of the SF-24 will be tested this Thursday and Friday by Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz. Both men will each get to drive 100 kilometres with it at the Fiorano circuit.

Major updates will take some time for Mercedes

Whilst the team are working on upgrades, it could be some time before they are delivered to the track. Team principal Toto Wolff said: "I think we know what we do, and in terms of what we're bringing to the car, you can't really rush it, because you’ve got to develop the point where you say, 'Now it's good to be released into production'. And once that part comes, or once these bits come, they need to be solid, so this is a matter of many weeks."

Bearman turns 19 today

F2, and F1 Haas and Ferrari reserve driver, Oliver Bearman turns 19 today. His dad posted on Instagram: "Happy Birthday Oliver, you have grown from just a head in to a fine young man. Love you." Ollie responded by joking: "Life was easier when I was just a head."