Hulkenberg fires cheeky response to Sainz rumours amid Audi seat speculation

Ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, the F1 rumour mill continued to suggest that Sainz could make a return to the German outfit – a seat he previously turned down before joining Williams in 2025. The speculation has gained momentum amid Williams’ difficult start to the campaign, alongside Hulkenberg’s own challenging opening races with Audi.

However, during media day at Spa-Francorchamps, Hulkenberg was asked about his future with the Audi project. The experienced German was quick to dismiss the speculation, insisting the team remains satisfied with both himself and teammate Gabriel Bortoleto, before jokingly suggesting Sainz could take up the reserve driver role instead.

“It's just typical summer F1 noise, I think, or I know in fact the team is very happy with Gabi [Bortoleto] and myself,” Hulkenberg told GPblog.

“We're only getting started. It’s year one for us as a team. On top of that, contracts are very clear. I read some of the rumours related to Carlos [Sainz], but I think the reserve driver’s seat is available, although I doubt he would be interested in that. So, no question marks on that from my side,” he added.

Sainz’s future continues to attract attention, with the former Ferrari driver recently outlining his plans amid a challenging start to life at Williams.

The Spaniard has been linked with a possible departure from the Grove-based outfit, but Sainz has repeatedly insisted that his focus remains on helping Williams progress. Speaking in Austria, Sainz made his position clear, revealing the message he had delivered to his management team regarding any potential opportunities elsewhere.

The four-time race winner, who spoke to GPblog and other media outlets, explained that he was not currently considering his future, with his priority firmly centred on improving Williams’ fortunes. Sainz also revealed that he had asked his management team not to approach him with any offers until the summer break, allowing him to concentrate fully on the team’s development.

“Seriously, I'm not because I have so much work to do here at Williams right now. Over the next few races, the amount of simulator sessions we're doing, the amount of meetings that have been held in the last few months,” Sainz said.