F1 Today: Assen hopes cool despite paddock rumours as Audi strengthens driver cover
Summary
Assen says it is not under consideration for a 2027 F1 race despite paddock rumours, while Audi gains Freddie Slater as a super licence-eligible backup for Hulkenberg or Bortoleto.
Formula 1 racing at Assen in 2027 looks unlikely, despite paddock chatter linking the Dutch venue to a possible Middle East vacancy. Audi, meanwhile, has strengthened its emergency driver options: Freddie Slater now holds a super licence.
Why it matters:
- Assen was floated as a replacement if any Middle Eastern round fell through, but GPblog's enquiries suggest the circuit is not under active consideration. FOM is sticking to the published 2027 schedule.
- For Audi, Slater's eligibility provides an in-house cover option for Nico Hulkenberg or Gabriel Bortoleto, reducing reliance on external arrangements.
The details:
- The 2027 calendar, released this week, retains Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Assen's previous talks with F1 left it believing Western Europe was not being considered as a fallback.
- Slater missed the F3 title in Madrid, but second place and his 18th birthday earned enough points for a super licence.
- He has not done a previous-car test or FP1, so Audi is expected to ease him in rather than call him up immediately.
- Audi still has two mandatory rookie FP1 sessions to complete and could again use Paul Aron, though no request has been sent to Alpine.
What's next:
Assen is not expected to push for a race unless FOM changes course. Audi will decide in the coming months whether Slater gets an FP1 outing before season's end, viewing him as a long-term prospect.
Original Article :https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/f1-today-assen-pours-cold-water-on-f1-rumours-as-...
