Audi has announced its driver lineup for the 2026 Formula 1 season, marking a significant milestone in its journey to the elite motorsport arena. Brazilian sensation Gabriel Bortoleto, 20, will partner with seasoned German driver Nico Hülkenberg, 37, forming a dynamic duo for the Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber as it transitions into the Audi F1 factory team.
A New Chapter in Formula 1
Bortoleto’s talent has been evident since his early karting days in São Paulo, with his recent victories underscoring his ascent through the racing ranks. After a breakthrough debut season where he dominated the FIA Formula 3 Championship in 2023, he now leads the Formula 2 standings, proving himself to be a formidable competitor. Audi’s move to secure his talent is part of its broader strategy to blend youthful promise with seasoned expertise as it enters F1’s highest echelon.
Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG and Chairman of Sauber Motorsport AG, remarked on this generational shift within Formula 1: “By signing Gabriel Bortoleto, we have secured one of the top talents. His signing underscores Audi’s long-term strategy and commitment to Formula 1.”
Building a Formula 1 Legacy with Audi
Supporting this ambitious journey, Mattia Binotto, COO and CTO of Sauber Motorsport AG, expressed confidence in the new pairing: “Gabriel has already demonstrated in the junior categories that he has what it takes to be a winning driver. We are very pleased that he will become a team member of Sauber and Audi. Together with Gabriel, we are on a journey towards success, and we will evolve into a unified force to shape a new era for Audi in motorsport. Nico and Gabriel represent the ideal combination of experience and youth, positioning us strongly for the future.”
Gabriel Bortoleto’s Aspirations
Enthused by the opportunity, Bortoleto shared, “Joining a team that combines the rich motorsport history of Sauber and Audi is a true honor. Beyond simply being a member, I aim to grow with this ambitious project and reach the pinnacle of motorsport. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity given to me by the team and for the chance to work alongside an experienced driver like Nico. Both programs have a proven track record of nurturing young talent, and I am confident that together we will write our own success story.”
Audi’s Vision for a Sustainable Future in Motorsport
Entering Formula 1 with a cutting-edge hybrid drive system and sustainable fuel focus, Audi aims to set a benchmark in eco-conscious racing. Its state-of-the-art Power Unit development, led by Audi Formula Racing GmbH in Germany, underscores this commitment. In addition, the Hinwil, Switzerland-based team will oversee racing operations, creating a synergy designed to elevate Audi’s status in global motorsport.
As Audi charts this exciting course, its strategy of blending Bortoleto’s raw talent with Hülkenberg’s deep experience exemplifies the brand’s meticulous approach to Formula 1. For both motorsport enthusiasts and luxury aficionados, Audi’s entry into Formula 1 symbolizes the fusion of cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and competitive spirit at its finest.
