Audi’s highly anticipated entry into Formula 1 in 2026 is taking shape, and the driver lineup has now been confirmed. Brazilian rising star Gabriel Bortoleto will join veteran German driver Nico Hülkenberg as part of the team that will spearhead Audi’s return to the pinnacle of motorsport. Bortoleto, a 20-year-old prodigy currently leading the FIA Formula 2 Championship, will partner with Hülkenberg at Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber for the 2025 season before transitioning to the Audi F1 factory team in 2026.
A Promising Future for Bortoleto
Hailing from São Paulo, Brazil, Bortoleto has been making waves in the motorsport world. He dominated his debut FIA Formula 3 season in 2023 and is now leading the FIA Formula 2 standings. His early start in karting at the age of six set the stage for an impressive rise through the ranks, culminating in his opportunity to drive for one of the most exciting new projects in F1. Moving to Europe at the age of 12, Bortoleto and his family committed fully to his racing dream, and it has paid off with this incredible chance to join Audi’s historic return to Formula 1.
“I’m honored to be part of a project that brings together the legendary Sauber team and the rich motorsport heritage of Audi,” said Bortoleto. “This is one of the most exciting projects in motorsport, and I’m thrilled to work alongside an experienced driver like Nico. Together, we will strive to make history.”
A Winning Formula: Youth and Experience
The pairing of Bortoleto and Hülkenberg is seen as a perfect blend of fresh talent and seasoned experience. Hülkenberg, a respected figure in Formula 1, was confirmed as part of the lineup back in April and brings years of knowledge and consistency to the table. With Bortoleto joining as a promising rookie, the team believes this mix will provide the ideal foundation for its future success.
“This is the ideal combination of experience and youth,” said Mattia Binotto, COO and CTO of Sauber Motorsport AG. “Gabriel has already shown he has the potential to be a winning driver, and with Nico’s experience, we have a strong team for the future. Together, they will help shape Audi’s new era in Formula 1.”
Audi’s Long-Term Vision
Audi’s involvement in Formula 1 marks a significant moment for the brand, signaling its commitment to the sport and its future ambitions. Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sauber Motorsport AG, highlighted the significance of signing Bortoleto as part of the long-term strategy.
“Gabriel Bortoleto is one of the brightest young talents in motorsport today,” said Döllner. “His signing reflects Audi’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to building a competitive team for the future. We are witnessing a generational shift in Formula 1, and we are excited to be part of this evolution.”
As the team prepares for its full transformation into the Audi F1 factory team in 2026, the partnership of Bortoleto and Hülkenberg will be crucial in developing the car and the team’s competitiveness. Audi aims to blend the experience of its motorsport history with a new generation of talent to create a formidable force on the F1 grid.
Source: Audi
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
