'More factors involved' in Audi option than father's alliance – Sainz

Carlos Sainz has stated there are "more factors involved" when it comes to considering a move to Audi other than his father's alliance with the German manufacturer. 

Carlos Sainz Sr. is an Audi driver in the Dakar rally and claimed its first win in the competition earlier this year. He joined the team in 2022. 

The veteran rally driver is not just an Audi driver, he is an admirer of the marque and has discussed its upcoming 2026 F1 entry with his son. The team is entering the sport when the new power unit regulations are introduced after taking over Stake F1, and have already signed Nico Hulkenberg for 2025 on a multi-year deal.

Sainz will likely have options other than the Sauber entry on the table for next season when he departs Ferrari. In terms of Audi, he does recognise the success of its parent company Volkswagen, something he accepts needs taking into account when thinking about his next move.

"For sure, my Dad, he will always say good things about Audi, the project, and how confident he is that Audi will make it to the top in Formula 1," Sainz told select media including RacingNews365.

"If you follow the Volkswagen projects, every time they've been involved in motorsports - doesn't matter if it's with Porsche, with Audi or any of the Volkswagen Group - they've managed to win, and I think that's a very important asset and something very important to consider."

More to consider

Despite Audi having been successful in other championships, it is unlikely it will be an immediate contender in F1. 

With Sainz approaching the peak of his F1 career, building a team from the bottom to the top might not be on his radar, as his championship chances will be greater elsewhere. 

Sainz's decision with regard to an Audi switch is not dependant solely on his father's cooperation with the company; however, he wishes them luck regardless of whether he becomes a driver for them or not. 

"But in my decision, and obviously in everything, there are a lot more factors involved," added Sainz.

"I really hope Audi in the future can fight for wins because it would just mean one more car fighting for wins, and a massive brand like they are, and I wish them the best without even having decided if that's a possibility for me or not."