The second driver of the Audi F1 team was announced as Gabriel Bortoleto. Bortoleto will race alongside German pilot Nico Hülkenberg.
The statement from Audi on this subject was as follows: “The driver lineup that will compete in Formula 1, which Audi will join in 2026, has been determined. One of the most promising talents for the future will represent Audi in the organization considered the pinnacle of motor sports: Brazilian Gabriel Bortoleto will compete with German Nico Hülkenberg in Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, which we will see as the Audi F1 factory team next year in 2026. Announced in April, experienced Hülkenberg and promising F1 rookie Bortoleto form an ideal driver duo for Audi’s Formula 1 project. Born in São Paulo, Bortoleto attracted attention by dominating the FIA Formula 3 Championship in his first season in 2023. Bortoleto currently leads the FIA Formula 2 Championship standings. Bortoleto, who started his career in karting at the age of six, moved to Europe with his family at the age of 12 to realize his Formula 1 dream. Joining the future Audi F1 works team gives Bortoleto the opportunity to showcase his talent at the highest level of motorsport.
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The team, which announced in April that German driver Nico Hülkenberg was in the squad for the next season, is thus preparing to turn into the Audi F1 factory team in 2026, with a balanced mixture of experience and youth. Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG and Chairman of the Board of Management of Sauber Motorsport AG: “We are witnessing a generational change in Formula 1 where young drivers are making an immediate impact. By agreeing with Gabriel Bortoleto, we added one of these important talents to our squad. “This signing reinforces Audi’s long-term strategy and commitment to Formula 1.” he said.
Mattia Binotto, COO and CTO of Sauber Motorsport AG: “Gabriel has already proven in the junior categories that he has what it takes to be a winning driver. We are very pleased to have him join the Sauber and Audi family. Together with Gabriel, we embark on a journey to success and will develop as a united force to create a new era in motorsport for Audi. Nico and Gabriel represent the ideal combination of experience and youth; “This positions us strongly for the future.”
Gabriel Bortoleto about the development: “This is one of the most exciting projects not only in motorsport, but in the entire sports world. It is a real honor to join a team that combines the rich motorsport history of Sauber and Audi. I aim not only to become a member, but also to grow with this ambitious project and reach the top of motor sports. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity the team has provided me and the chance to work with an experienced driver like Nico. “Both programs have a proven track record of developing young talent, and I am confident that together we will write our own success story.” made the statement.