When Mattia Binotto resigned from Ferrari in 2022, who would’ve thought he would return to F1? But look, he is back and not with Ferrari this time. The 54-year-old is joining Stake Sauber on August 1. What’s his role in the soon-to-be Audi team? Binotto is taking on the posts of Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technical Officer. Moreover, his experience as a former team principal could come in handy in picking the right driver for their second seat. So, could we see Carlos Sainz in Audi, given that he and Binotto worked closely at Ferrari?

Moreover, Binotto’s dramatic arrival at Audi saw key departures. This could negatively impact the team. However, there’s still hope they’ll adapt well. With a seat already reserved for Nico Hulkenberg, the second seat needs a driver. And Carlos Sainz could be a great option. His joining Audi is a possibility, and Ralf Schumacher hints that this move is now more likely.

Schumacher particularly pointed to Carlos Sainz: “He (Binotto) is a loyal fan and also a friend of Carlos Sainz. That could also be a political move in the background. They might say: we want this person and that person to support us. The two know each other from Ferrari and have worked together pleasantly. That’s probably the direction this is heading.” The former F1 driver implies that Binotto could potentially lure Sainz to Audi. And his previous experience with the Spaniard would help him in doing the task.

But the question here is, will Sainz agree to this? Especially now when he is being ‘selfish’ about his future in the sport – he is most unlikely to pick a team even with old connections. What does Carlos think of this new role Mattia Binotto is undertaking in a new team?

Can Mattia Binotto’s presence in Audi sway Carlos Sainz’s mind?

Does Binotto going to Audi impact the Spaniard’s decision-making? “Not really,” remarked Carlos Sainz. It looks like it would take more than just Binotto to bring Sainz into the squad. But what is this “more”? It is yet to be discovered. Meanwhile, the 29-year-old has appreciated his former team boss. Carlos said, “He has the experience to build a top team like Ferrari today. He can also bring it to Audi, and this is the reason why they hired him.” Despite operational failures, Binotto’s stay at Ferrari wasn’t a complete disappointment.

And since Sainz shared an understanding with the Italian, he knows the potential Binotto can bring to a team. But this isn’t solving the problem—not for Carlos Sainz or Audi. They’d desperately want to bring the Spaniard to the team, as his talent is proven on the track. With three Grand Prix race wins and several podiums, Sainz’s partnership with Hulkenberg could elevate the new team to great heights. However, one must wait for Carlos to pick his team.

While Binotto’s arrival in Sauber/Audi could be a revolutionary move by the team, Carlos Sainz still isn’t convinced to join them. But a strategic move by the ex-Ferrari boss could do wonders. As of now, we can do nothing but speculate and wait for these speculations to come true (if ever!).

What are your thoughts on Mattia Binotto’s Audi entry? Share your thoughts in the comments.