Top executive at Sauber, Mattia Binotto, is not shy about his ambitions for his new team. The Italian began his role as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technical Officer at the Swiss team a year ago, after being forced to leave his position as team boss at Ferrari. Binotto hopes that Sauber, with the impending takeover by Audi, can compete for victories and even dreams of a title fight for Nico Hülkenberg.
The takeover of the Sauber team by Audi is drawing ever closer. The German manufacturer is set to appear on the grid for the first time under its own brand name in 2026, with former Ferrari team boss Matti Binotto at the helm. However, the Italian candidly admits that his new team is not entirely ready for the major takeover.
Title for Hülkenberg?
“There are still many goals we want to achieve,” Binotto tells the German SID. “Even more podium finishes, and even victories. We even want to win a title with Nico (Hülkenberg), so he still has plenty to do.” According to the Italian, the German driver plays a key role in Audi’s plans to join the top ranks. “I want Nico to compete at the front of the field. I not only hope for this, but I also believe it will happen.”
Before Binotto dares to fully dream of a title for Hülkenberg, there is still quite a bit of work to be done at the Sauber team. “We are not yet paving our way forward, but we do know the path we want to take to the top. And we will also start climbing soon. Setting up a new factory team on the grid is one of the most exciting things to do in Formula 1.”
