Who will be Audi's second driver? Binotto details his thought process

GPblog reported earlier this week that Gabriel Bortoleto is at the top of Audi's wish list. The Brazilian is making an impression in Formula 2 and is part of the McLaren team. The 19-year-old is in talks with Audi, but Valtteri Bottas is also still among the top contenders. Will they go for a future star or a veteran with a lot of Formula 1 experience?

Binotto was asked whether he is leaning more towards a young driver. "I have only been here for a couple of weeks. We are certainly sharing all the first impressions and what the next steps are. It's certainly something that we need to judge. As I said, it's a project which is looking to a medium long-term objective. Or even long-term objective. [We have to think] what's best for us from now to the final goal. Is it more about having short-term experience and then moving to something different? We need to decide."

Audi can't wait long

The 54-year-old says he cannot answer that at this stage. "We are not in the position to answer. We are certainly listening to all potential drivers. We are certainly evaluating the pros and the cons. What's the best compromise? I think we will decide as soon as possible because we need to set up the team for next year and for the future," he added.

Several names have been linked to Audi in recent weeks, with Bortoleto and Bottas being the most serious contenders. Binotto, however, does not want to comment on names. "We need to stop any speculation because it's not in our interest. But so far, no decision. As well as on what will be best [for Audi]. It's really evaluations which we are doing right now. And hopefully, very soon, we can have a conclusion," he said.

This article has been created in collaboration with Matt Gretton

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