Sainz angered by 'invented rumors' of move to Audi in 2026

©Ferrari

Ferrari's Carlos Sainz isn't happy with the "uncorroborated and invented" rumors linking him to a move to Audi in 2026.

The German manufacture is in the process of developing a next-generation power unit for Formula 1 that will allow it to enter the sport in 2026 alongside chassis partner and soon-to-be Audi affiliate Sauber.

Earlier this year, Audi F1 boss Adam Barker stated that it was way too early for the manufacturer to discuss its potential driver line-up for 2026.

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But reports in the press claim that Sainz is at the top of Audi's list of potential candidates, a rumor perhaps boosted by the strong relationship currently enjoyed by the Scuderia charger's father, Carlos Sainz Sr, and the Ingolstadt firm to which the former rally legend is contracted.

But Sainz Jr is unhappy with the gossip conveyed by the media

"I don’t understand why people are talking about what could happen in 2026 when I still don’t have a contract for 2025," he said, quoted by Marca.

"It angers me when uncorroborated and invented rumours come out."

©Ferrari

Sainz won his maiden Grand Prix with Ferrari last year at Silverstone. But the 28-year-old is struggling at the Italian outfit this season along with teammate Charles Leclerc due to Ferrari's relative underperformance.

But Sainz sees his long-term future at Maranello and believes his loyalty with pay off at some point down the road.

"My intention is to stay at Ferrari for many years," he affirmed.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.