Nico Hulkenberg has expressed confidence in Audi’s progress during its maiden Formula 1 season, following his first points finish of the 2026 campaign at the Hungarian Grand Prix. The German driver secured ninth place at the Hungaroring, marking a significant personal milestone.
This result contributed to Audi’s overall momentum, as the team had already achieved three consecutive points finishes before the summer break. Teammate Gabriel Bortoleto previously scored points in Australia, and secured eighth-place finishes at both the British and Belgian Grands Prix.
Hulkenberg believes Audi now possesses a competitive package capable of regularly contending for points in the midfield. He stated the team has successfully navigated initial difficulties. The objective is to transform occasional points finishes into a consistent occurrence.
Audi, operating as a full works team since 2026, took over the former Sauber operation. The team’s structure includes chassis development in Hinwil, power unit production in Neuburg, and a technology centre in Bicester.
The 2026 regulations, featuring new power unit architecture with increased electrical power and 100% sustainable fuels, presented an ideal entry point for Audi. Despite this, the primary challenge during the first half of the season involved power unit reliability.
Development of the 2026 power unit hardware concluded in November 2025, with Audi’s focus shifting to the 2027 and 2028 seasons for major revisions. However, optimization and software updates for the current power unit continue.
Audi was granted development concessions under the Additional Development and Upgrade Opportunities (ADUO) framework due to a performance deficit. This allows for supplementary engine upgrades, though the team prioritizes aerodynamic development for the remainder of 2026.
Racing Director Allan McNish is encouraged by the team’s trajectory, particularly ahead of this weekend’s Dutch Grand Prix. Hulkenberg noted Audi’s aerodynamic strength, which could suit the high-downforce Circuit Zandvoort.
The German driver anticipates a close battle for midfield positions, specifically mentioning Racing Bulls and Alpine. Racing Bulls currently leads the midfield, holding fifth in the Constructors’ Championship.
Alpine, despite an early-season podium for Pierre Gasly in Monaco, has seen its pace decline. Drivers have expressed concerns about the car’s speed compared to rivals like Audi and Racing Bulls.
The Dutch Grand Prix will feature a Sprint format, reducing practice time for teams. This event marks the start of the second half of the 2026 season.
‘We’ve battled through some difficult moments at the start of the season, but, yeah, kept together and I think we have a competitive, good package now to fight the midfield,’ Hulkenberg stated.
Hulkenberg also highlighted the organizational growth within Audi during its debut season. The team’s long-term ambition is to challenge for world championships by 2030.
