Hülkenberg says he will also drive for Audi in 2027

Nico Hülkenberg has said he will continue driving for Audi next year despite speculation on his future at the Formula One team.

"There are no question marks for me. It's the usual noise during the Formula One summer," Hülkenberg said on Thursday ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix weekend.

"We are just getting started. It is the first year as a team for us. I know that the team is very happy with Gabi and me."

Veteran Hülkenberg and Brazilian youngster Gabriele Bortoleto having been driving for the team formerly known as Sauber since last year. Audi took over this season and Hülkenberg has a multi-year contract with them.

Exact details are not known but Hülkenberg said that "the contractual situation is pretty clear."

Speculation arose after Carlos Sainz had made himself a candidate for Audi because he is reportedly unhappy at Williams.

"I read the rumours concerning Carlos," Hülkenberg said, adding in Sainz' direction: "The position of reserve driver is available but I don't know whether he is interested."

Hülkenberg is yet to finish in the top 10 for championship points this season. His best results are two 11-place finishes. Bortoleto has garnered six points.