Mike Krack moves closer to Audi

The transformation of the Sauber team into Audi seemed to be progressing promisingly, but internal tensions have recently emerged, disrupting this process. Andreas Seidl, CEO of the team, and Oliver Hoffmann, in charge of the F1 operation bringing together the engine factory in Neuburg in Bavaria and the headquarters of Sauber Motorsport in Hinwil, are reportedly at odds over the choice of future drivers, especially concerning Nico Hülkenberg’s teammate. These disagreements are complicating the advanced negotiations with Carlos Sainz, who is struggling to understand the true ambitions of the future Formula 1 team.

Differences in Vision Within the Team

According to several sources, including AutoAction and as-web.jp, Seidl and Hoffmann would have too divergent visions for the future of the team, leading them to no longer want to work together.

In the backstage, there is a constant battle between Hoffmann and Seidl. According to sources, Hoffmann is considering firing Andreas Seidl and bringing in Mike Krack from Aston Martin to become the team principal of the Audi F1 team. Longtime executive at Audi and board member, Hoffmann would be ready to part ways with Seidl after two years of collaboration, aiming to replace him with Mike Krack in order to take over the CEO position that the German could leave vacant.

Paradoxically, Andreas Seidl would also consider putting pressure on the board to obtain Hoffmann’s dismissal, in order, also, to recruit Mike Krack. This delicate situation for Hoffmann, appointed chief representative of Audi’s F1 project last March, is exacerbated by the pressure exerted by Gernot Döllner, CEO of Audi, who partly attributes Sauber’s recent failures (the team still has not scored any points this year).

Recruitment and Restructuring Necessary

Faced with uncertainties and power struggles among certain senior officials, it is imperative to proceed with layoffs and hirings to clarify the project’s vision and attract drivers and directors to the German brand. Among the potential recruits, the name of Mike Krack has been repeatedly mentioned since the British Grand Prix.

« Now another former Sauber employee is in the spotlight: Mike Krack. The Luxembourger no longer feels comfortable at Aston Martin, probably because of his boss (Lawrence Stroll). »

Conflicts of interest also seem to affect Aston Martin, whose performances are stagnating this year, with a midfield team surpassed by its competitors. This less-than-ideal situation could prompt Mike Krack to leave Aston Martin to join Audi, where his presence would undoubtedly be welcomed. His recruitment could bring a breath of fresh air and ease tensions, allowing the team to make serene progress towards its objectives.