It is no secret that Sauber are waiting for Carlos Sainz to decide his future. The Swiss outfit have identified Sainz as their priority in the market for several months. However, the Spaniard is considering other options and is certainly not guaranteed to join the Hinwil-based team. Because of this, Sauber have alternatives – with Esteban Ocon among them.
When Ferrari’s signing of Lewis Hamilton became official, the early assumption was that Sainz would join Sauber. With the 2026 regulations approaching, joining a soon-to-be engine manufacturer seemed a logical move on paper.
However, Audi’s influence has yet to significantly increase Sauber’s pull in the market. If anything, this year is revealing a sceptical attitude towards Audi’s chances in 2026. Considering the German brand is still unproven in Formula 1, this caution is understandable.
If Sainz decides against joining Andreas Seidl’s project, Sauber has other drivers on their 2025 wish list.
Andrea Benisi, Race Engineer, Kick Sauber F1 Team ; 2024 Australian Grand Prix, Formula One World Championship
Ocon a desirable target, but he is also negotiating with Haas
At the very beginning of 2024, whispers were emerging that Esteban Ocon was on Audi’s radar. Several months later, with the Frenchman turning the chapter from his time at Alpine, he remains a desirable candidate.
Ocon is a race-winner with considerable experience. He would form a very strong partnership alongside Nico Hulkenberg. Given that Sauber are last in the standings (irrespective of their pending manufacturer status), landing this duo would be a huge plus.
As mentioned previously, Audi’s performance in the new 2026 regulations is uncertain. Therefore, signing an established name would be a good step as they work to prove themselves as serious contenders.
From Ocon’s perspective, Sauber is just one option at his disposal. His negotiations with Haas are now well-established, as the team led by Ayao Komatsu becomes an increasingly popular destination among drivers.
The team’s direct connections to Ferrari, along with their relatively solid performance in 2024, make Haas a safe short-term landing spot.
Because of this, Sauber are playing the waiting game. Carlos Sainz will be the next domino to fall. His next team will inform Sauber’s next steps as they work to find a teammate for Nico Hulkenberg.
