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Bortoleto Rebuffs Audi Exit Rumours and Reaffirms Long-Term Deal
Gabriel Bortoleto has moved to quell unconfirmed paddock rumours linking Carlos Sainz to Audi, insisting his multi-year contract contains no clauses that would put his seat at risk.
By Michael de Vries - 2026-08-18T11:40:00.000Z - 2 min read
Unconfirmed paddock speculation linking Carlos Sainz with a prospective move to Audi has met firm resistance from Gabriel Bortoleto, who insists his future with the manufacturer is completely settled. As the Formula 1 paddock reconvenes at Zandvoort, the Brazilian newcomer has moved decisively to dismiss unverified rumours suggesting that his seat could be in jeopardy for the upcoming campaign.
Addressing the gossip surrounding his contract, Bortoleto made it clear that his commitment to Audi is structured as a multi-year project without exit clauses that would allow for his premature replacement. The rookie emphasized that his agreement is aligned with the long-term vision overseen by Mattia Binotto, who has outlined a strategic development timeline stretching all the way to 2030.
Driver market chatter had escalated in recent weeks following an uncorroborated link between Audi and Sainz, whose move to Williams has required a revised timeline in his pursuit of podium finishes. Although the bulk of the unconfirmed speculation had initially focused on the experienced Nico Hulkenberg, Bortoleto opted to clarify his own standing before the second half of the season gets underway in the Netherlands.
Audi's debut campaign as a full manufacturer has brought significant technical ambition, most notably through the decision to build and race its own in-house power unit from day one rather than delaying engine development. That independent engineering path has come alongside tough midfield competition, with the sport’s leading four operations consistently locking out the majority of top-ten finishing positions.
Despite the limited availability of points, Bortoleto has delivered standout performances during his rookie campaign to reward the team's confidence. The Brazilian registered impressive eighth-place finishes at both Silverstone and the Belgian Grand Prix, securing Audi's highest individual race results of the season to date and demonstrating his growing comfort in the car.
In addition to reaffirming his contractual stability, Bortoleto praised the working environment shared with Hulkenberg, highlighting the German driver's pace, vast experience and constructive influence on the garage. While refusing to be drawn into speculation regarding any external contracts across the pit lane, he expressed full confidence in the direction of the joint project.
With preparations now turning toward the Dutch Grand Prix weekend, Bortoleto remains adamant that his seat is secure and that outside noise will not distract from the work at hand. By confronting the rumours directly, the young Brazilian aims to keep the spotlight firmly on Audi's track development as the team continues to build its foundation for the years ahead.