A potential new candidate to join Audi

The driver market is more than active during this summer break. With many rumors already circulating about certain transfers, this time, a new name is entering the fray. The Audi team, which already has many candidates on its list, could have one last card to play. And it’s by turning to another discipline of motorsport that they have created a surprise.

Looking for a second pilot

In an unexpected turn of events, it seems that the current IndyCar champion and former McLaren test driver, Álex Palou, could make his arrival in Formula 1 in 2025. This was shared by several media outlets, including Planet F1. It is worth mentioning that several drivers have already been linked to the team, notably the current Sauber drivers, Valtterri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu. Other names such as Gabriel Bortoleto in Formula 2 and another Indycar driver, Théo Pourchaire, have also emerged. So far, there is no concrete information, but Álex Palou’s name is now added to the long list of potential candidates.

Currently, the team that will replace Sauber in 2026 is still looking for a teammate for Nico Hülkenberg. Earlier this year, he announced that he had signed a multi-year contract with the team. However, while waiting for his arrival in the discipline, the German will remain at Sauber in 2025. Within the current grid, two options had been considered for a seat, but unfortunately, things did not go as planned.

Audi’s goal is first and foremost to be competitive from day one. The team wanted to rely primarily on experience, counting on the arrival of Carlos Sainz or Esteban Ocon to achieve its dream. Unfortunately, both drivers have chosen other options. Carlos Sainz will join Williams at the end of the season, while Esteban Ocon will now be part of the American team Haas. As for performance, Audi prefers to focus on other disciplines.

Álex Palou: An appropriate alternative

Álex Palou is currently competing in the American IndyCar championship. A double champion in his discipline, he is now a potential choice. Despite being older for a Formula 1 debut (27 years old), his numerous victories have managed to convince the team. In 2022, he had already taken part in a practice session for McLaren, with which he was involved. However, during their collaboration, Álex Palou reportedly refused to join the team in IndyCar despite having signed a contract. This incident marked the end of his journey in Formula 1.

Alex Palou, who has ultimately joined Chip Ganassi Racing, is leading the championship in this first half of 2024. Earlier in the year, the Spanish driver had mentioned a remaining desire to join Formula 1. According to him, the chances are still slim considering his age. « I am too old to wait and see if someone gets injured and that’s how I can get my chance,” he said.

Audi’s interest in Álex Palou also comes after changes in the team’s leadership. Former team boss at Ferrari, Mattia Binotto, was recently appointed as Audi’s head of operations and technical director, while Jonathan Wheatley has also joined the crew. Change is in the air for the German company. And as Audi gears up for its debut in 2026, the potential addition of Álex Palou to their team could bring his share of experience as they seek.