
Audi’s future Formula 1 team principal has delivered a firm and confident statement about the manufacturer’s ambitions in the sport, underlining that Audi is not entering F1 to make up the numbers. As preparations continue for the brand’s highly anticipated arrival on the grid, the message from the top is clear: Audi intends to compete at the highest level from the outset, guided by long-term vision, discipline, and a carefully constructed driver lineup.
That ambition has been echoed by the drivers themselves, with Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hülkenberg openly describing their involvement in the project as a “dream come true.” For Bortoleto, one of the most highly rated young talents on the junior ladder, the opportunity represents a major step toward establishing himself at the pinnacle of motorsport. He has spoken of the pride that comes with being associated with a manufacturer of Audi’s stature, viewing the project as the perfect environment to grow and prove himself.
Hülkenberg, meanwhile, brings experience and stability to the table, qualities Audi sees as essential during the early phases of its Formula 1 journey. The German driver has emphasized the emotional significance of being part of a works project from his home country, describing it as a rare and special moment in his career. His role is expected to go beyond driving duties, helping to shape the team’s technical direction and culture as it builds toward long-term success.
The Audi F1 boss has stressed that the pairing reflects a deliberate balance between youth and experience. According to team leadership, this approach is central to Audi’s philosophy: nurturing emerging talent while relying on proven expertise to guide development. The clear message is that every decision is being made with sustainability and competitiveness in mind, rather than chasing short-term results.
As Audi continues its countdown to joining the Formula 1 grid, the combination of strong leadership, ambitious drivers, and a unified vision is already generating excitement within the paddock. While challenges undoubtedly lie ahead, the confidence expressed by both management and drivers suggests that Audi’s entry into the sport will be defined by purpose, belief, and a determination to turn a shared dream into a competitive reality.