System 1 | Horner clashes with Marko over Audi’s offer for Sainz

The head of the Red Bull team Christian Horner has opposed Dr. Helmut Marko’s proposals regarding the driver market, dismissing them as just a concept, adding that it will be “inappropriate” disclose that information.

Horner’s response comes after Marko claimed Carlos Sainz had “Great deal from Audi”and added that Red Bull “I could never match or surpass him”. The Austrian even added that Sainz had been offered a 3-year contract with Audi (read here).

Despite speculation that the Spanish driver could replace Sergio Pérez in Red Bull’s second seat, the belief remains that Audi is his long-term destination. It has also been suggested that he will join Stake F1 next year, before Sauber moves to Audi for 2026.

“As far as Carlos is concerned, this is just a rumor,” Horner says when asked about Marko’s claims.

“We don’t know what Audi has offered for Carlos, who is an important driver in the market. So it’s only natural that there will be a lot of interest.”

“And I’m sure Audi would be foolish not to consider a driver of his quality among others who have potential.”

“But it would be inappropriate to reveal the offers that have been made. This is something that has not been disclosed to us, which is the offers that have been made by others to the team.”