In 2026, Audi will officially enter Formula 1, but the team is already advancing the formation of its team for the coming years. Brazilian Gabriel Bortoleto, 20 years old, winner of Formula 3 in 2023 and current leader of Formula 2, was confirmed as part of the project, bringing Brazil back to F1.
The experienced Nico Hülkenberg, 37 years old, has also been confirmed and will form a balanced driver duo with Bortoleto. The team, which currently competes under the Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, will become Audi's official team from 2026, being one of the German automaker's main bets to gain space in the category.
Gernot Döllner, CEO of Audi, commented on the importance of hiring young talent and the brand's long-term strategy in F1. Mattia Binotto, COO of Sauber, highlighted Bortoleto's potential, stating that he has the ideal profile to achieve success.
For Bortoleto, the chance is an honor and represents the realization of a dream. According to the pilot, the partnership with Hülkenberg will be essential for its development and growth in such an ambitious project.
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