Formula 1 is all about on-track action, but the drama off the track is just as exciting, especially when top teams show interest in the sport’s biggest stars. Recently, the Audi Team Principal, Jonathan Wheatley, made headlines by openly expressing a strong desire to sign Max Verstappen, the Red Bull Racing superstar.
Audi’s interest in Verstappen isn’t just a casual whisper; it’s a bold statement from the top. The Audi Team Principal said, “We want Max Verstappen,” highlighting how much they see Verstappen as a key figure to build their Formula 1 future around. This is huge news, considering Verstappen’s dominance in the sport and his current loyalty to Red Bull.
What Did The Audi Team Principal, Jonathan Wheatley, Say?
Speaking to De Telegraaf, the Audi Team Principal, Jonathan Wheatley, expressed confidence in their ability to compete and said, “Yes, I want Max Verstappen to drive our car. What kind of team principal would I be if I didn’t want that?”
“I’m in the fortunate position of having been friends with Max for a long time, but also with his father, Jos, and manager, Raymond. And such a friendship develops because you’re always honest and you never betray the trust you’ve built. But I don’t think that’s enough right now to directly link Verstappen to a Formula 1 seat at Audi,” he added
Is This Possible?
Currently, Verstappen is under contract with Red Bull, and he has confirmed plans to stay with them until the end of the 2028 season. But in Formula 1, things can change quickly, and Audi’s public interest in him speaks volumes about their goals. With Audi investing heavily in building a competitive car, having Verstappen behind the wheel would be a dream come true for the team.
If Audi manages to sign Verstappen in the future, it would create one of the most thrilling rivalries in motorsport history. Until then, the Audi Team Principal’s words give fans a glimpse of what the future might hold.
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