Gabriel Bortoleto marked a successful start for Audi in Formula 1 by securing a points finish at the 2026 season opener in Australia. The Brazilian driver completed the Melbourne race in ninth place at Albert Park, delivering crucial points as Audi made its maiden appearance in F1.
Challenging Race Conditions Tested Drivers’ Strategy
The event was shaped by intense strategic battles as drivers adapted to F1’s updated technical regulations, particularly in managing battery energy now contributing nearly half of the power unit output. Bortoleto experienced a difficult start owing to new grid procedures caused by the removal of the MGU-H system but steadily recovered throughout the 58 laps.
By the race’s end, Bortoleto had closed in on rookie Arvid Lindblad of Racing Bulls but was unable to overtake the Briton for eighth place.
“It was a very messy one, I must say,”
Bortoleto remarked.
“From the start to the end, a lot of things happening – a lot of new things. So quite an interesting one but enjoyable.”
?Gabriel Bortoleto, Driver
Audi’s Debut Reflects Extensive Preparation and Reliability
Audi entered Formula 1 as the only new power unit manufacturer this season, assuming control of the Sauber team after intensive work at both the Hinwil team base and the Neuberg powertrain plant in Germany. Despite teammate Nico Hulkenberg withdrawing from the race due to mechanical issues, Bortoleto demonstrated the R26 chassis and engine’s impressive reliability by finishing in the points.
“It’s incredible. I’m extremely happy and the team deserves it,”
Bortoleto said.
“A lot of hard work has been put in. Reliable car, reliable engine – a great point to start.”
?Gabriel Bortoleto, Driver
He added,
“To finish in the points in our first event as Audi and writing a piece of motorsport history is something the whole team can be extremely proud of.”
Looking Ahead: Building on a Strong Foundation
Reflecting on the weekend, Bortoleto highlighted the significance of a reliable performance and the team’s effort to prepare for the season.
“It was a positive race at the end of a good weekend for us: the car and the power unit ran reliably throughout the day, which is a great reward for the enormous effort that went in over the winter to get everything ready for the season.”
“Overall, it is probably more than we could have expected from the first weekend. This result gives us a good baseline to build from, but we know there are still many areas where we can improve. There are a lot of races ahead of us, and our focus now is on continuing to learn, develop the car and come back even stronger at the next events.”
?Gabriel Bortoleto, Driver
Bortoleto’s consistent performance and Audi’s technological progress set a promising tone for the German manufacturer’s journey in Formula 1, with expectations high for continued growth and competitiveness in future races.
