Audi’s driver lineup for its 2026 Formula 1 debut is confirmed, bringing together an exciting blend of youth and experience.
Brazilian rising star Gabriel Bortoleto, 20, will partner with seasoned German driver Nico Hülkenberg, 37, as part of the team currently known as Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, which will evolve into the official Audi F1 factory team in 2026.
Hülkenberg’s experience, confirmed for the upcoming season earlier this year, complements Bortoleto’s dynamic entry into F1, forming a balanced driver pairing for Audi’s ambitious entry into motorsport’s highest echelon.
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Bortoleto, a São Paulo native, has made a swift rise through the ranks. His standout performance in 2023 saw him dominate his rookie season in the FIA Formula 3 Championship, and he currently leads the Formula 2 standings.
His motorsport journey began at six years old in karting, and he moved to Europe at twelve to pursue his Formula 1 aspirations. Now, joining the team poised to become Audi’s official F1 presence, Bortoleto has a chance to prove himself on the global stage.
Audi’s top executives are optimistic about the future with this pairing. Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG and Chairman of Sauber Motorsport AG, remarked on the promising young talent: “Formula 1 is experiencing a generational shift, and Gabriel Bortoleto is a key part of it. His addition reflects Audi’s commitment to long-term success in F1.”
Sauber Motorsport COO and CTO Mattia Binotto echoed these sentiments, saying, “Gabriel’s achievements in junior categories show he has the potential to be a winning driver. His arrival, alongside Nico, positions us well to shape a strong future for Audi in Formula 1. This combination of youth and experience is exactly what we need.”
Bortoleto himself expressed his excitement about joining such a prestigious project, stating, “This is one of the most thrilling projects in motorsport. Being part of a team with the combined legacy of Sauber and Audi is an honor. I look forward to growing with this team and working closely with Nico. Together, I’m confident we can create a successful future for Audi in Formula 1.”
The pairing of Hülkenberg and Bortoleto not only represents Audi’s commitment to blending experience with fresh talent but also sets the stage for a new era in F1. The team’s transition to the Audi factory outfit marks a major step in their motorsport ambitions, as they look toward a strong, competitive debut in 2026.
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