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via Motorsport WeekCarlos Sainz future at Williams remains uncertainCarlos Sainz's potential move to Williams has been a topic of speculation in the driver transfer market. Audi's F1 project chief indicated that their driver lineup is likely to remain unchanged for 2027, despite Sainz being considered a strong candidate.
+ 1 moreSun 9 Aug · 18:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Audi reveal 'house in order' focus as key area of improvement identifiedAudi is preparing for its first summer break in Formula 1 after a promising start to the season, having accumulated 10 points, all from driver Gabriel Bortoleto. Currently positioned ninth in the constructors' championship, the team is just one point behind Williams and is focusing on internal improvements rather than competing directly with rivals.
Allan McNish, the racing director, highlighted reliability as a critical area needing enhancement, especially following issues in recent races. He expressed a generally positive outlook on the team's performance thus far, while acknowledging the challenges faced and the need to address reliability concerns in the upcoming races.
Sun 9 Aug · 13:40 UTC
via Motorsport.comAudi receives positive mid-season review in 2026Audi has completed the first half of its debut season in Formula 1, receiving positive feedback on its performance. The team aims for future success, with aspirations to win championships by 2030.
+ 1 moreSun 9 Aug · 11:04 UTC
via f1technical.netMcNish explains his new role as Audi Racing Director after returning to Formula 1Allan McNish has taken on the role of Racing Director for Audi as they enter Formula 1, marking his return to the sport after more than twenty years. He is responsible for overseeing trackside operations and has expressed excitement about being back in the paddock, especially during the team's debut season in the championship.
McNish clarified the distinction between his role and that of Team Principal Mattia Binotto, who manages the overall project. His responsibilities encompass not only racing and engineering but also marketing and communications, highlighting the collaborative nature of his position within Audi's Formula 1 program, which has been in development since its announcement in 2022.
Sat 8 Aug · 14:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Bortoleto discusses changes at Audi since takeoverGabriel Bortoleto has shared insights on the significant changes within the team following Audi's takeover in 2025. He noted that the transition from Stake F1 to Audi has led to major developments over the past 18 months.+ 1 moreSat 8 Aug · 13:40 UTC
via Motorsport.comBinotto responds to Sainz and Piastri Audi rumoursMattia Binotto, Audi's Formula 1 project chief, has commented on rumors linking Carlos Sainz and Oscar Piastri to the team. He indicated that the current driver lineup is likely to remain unchanged for the 2027 season.+ 1 moreFri 7 Aug · 19:06 UTC
via grandprix.comHulkenberg ready to stay with Audi long-termNico Hulkenberg has expressed his readiness to continue racing for Audi for the long term, indicating that his earlier concerns about his 2027 seat have diminished. After achieving a P9 finish at the Hungarian GP, he believes his performance this season is stronger than what the standings reflect, highlighting a disconnect between race outcomes and points earned.
Hulkenberg, who is currently under contract until 2027, is open to extending his stay with Audi if the team desires and he continues to enjoy racing. He emphasized that his focus is on Audi's development as a works team rather than future contract discussions, stating that the team's progress is his primary concern.
via grandprix.comKristensen defends 2026 rules despite artificial racingTom Kristensen, a prominent figure in motorsport, has come out in support of the 2026 Formula 1 regulations, despite some criticisms regarding the artificial nature of racing. He highlighted the improvements in car design, making them lighter and more agile, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by energy management at certain tracks. Kristensen emphasized the importance of adaptability for modern drivers in the evolving landscape of Formula 1 racing.
Additionally, Kristensen identified Kimi Antonelli as a standout performer this season, noting his impressive ability to outperform his more experienced teammate. He believes that a driver's mental state plays a significant role in their performance, particularly in managing the complexities of the new cars. Kristensen's insights reflect a blend of optimism for the future of the sport and recognition of the challenges that come with the new regulations.
via RacingNews365Exclusive: Audi share five-word summary of first F1 season at halfway stageAudi's inaugural Formula 1 season has been marked by a mix of challenges and gradual progress. Team principal Mattia Binotto highlighted the importance of establishing a solid foundation rather than focusing solely on immediate results. The R26 chassis has received positive feedback, although the power unit has struggled with reliability and performance issues. Despite these setbacks, Audi managed to secure points in their debut race and concluded the first half of the season with three consecutive finishes in the points.
Looking ahead, Binotto remains optimistic about the team's trajectory, emphasizing the need for continued development and improvement. He acknowledged the operational inconsistencies typical of a new team but expressed confidence that lessons learned will lead to better performances in the future. Overall, while Audi is not yet satisfied with their results, they are encouraged by the progress made thus far.Thu 6 Aug · 15:30 UTC
via Motorsport.comAudi performing better than expected in F1 2026 - Allan McNishAudi's entry into Formula 1 for the 2026 season has exceeded expectations, with the team achieving three consecutive points finishes and making five Q3 appearances in the first 11 races. Racing director Allan McNish expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, particularly in qualifying, where the average positions of drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto have been competitive. Despite these successes, Audi sits eighth in the standings and acknowledges the need for improvements, especially regarding race starts and overall performance against the top teams.
The team has accumulated 12 points so far, with a significant portion coming from recent races. McNish highlighted the importance of ongoing development and teamwork as Audi aims to strengthen its position in the midfield. While the gap to the leading teams remains substantial, the team is optimistic about its growth and future potential in the championship.Tue 4 Aug · 11:25 UTC
via F1iAudi to pause engine development until 2027Audi has decided to freeze its engine development until 2027, despite a promising start to its Formula 1 project. The team aims to focus on maximizing its performance without rushing upgrades this season.
+ 1 moreSun 2 Aug · 13:51 UTC
via Motorsport.comAudi to delay F1 power unit upgrades until 2027Audi has decided to halt further upgrades to its Formula 1 power unit until 2027. This decision follows a promising initial performance since taking over the Sauber team.+ 1 moreSat 1 Aug · 08:13 UTC
via theguardian.com‘I’m living every lap and every corner’: Allan McNish on guiding Audi into F1 from pitwallAllan McNish, a former driver and successful sports car racer, is now the racing director for Audi's newly formed Formula 1 team, which made its debut in 2026. He brings a wealth of experience from his racing career, including multiple victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and aims to guide Audi through the challenges of entering the highly competitive F1 environment. Despite the team's current struggles, ranking ninth in the constructors' championship, McNish remains optimistic about their potential for growth and success in the coming years.
McNish emphasizes the importance of understanding the driver's needs and experiences in his role, drawing parallels between his past as a driver and his current responsibilities. Audi's strategy includes a five-year plan to become competitive, with a target set for 2030 to contend for championships. McNish's leadership and insights are seen as valuable assets as Audi navigates its first season in F1, aiming to establish itself as a formidable competitor in the sport.
Sat 25 Jul · 07:00 UTC
via grandprix.comBortoleto commits long-term, Sauber defends AudiGabriel Bortoleto has confirmed his long-term commitment to Audi, stating he has a multi-year contract and is optimistic about future successes with the team. Peter Sauber, the retired founder of Sauber, defended the team's progress with the new engine formula and highlighted the importance of team harmony under team principal Mattia Binotto. Bortoleto also addressed the controversial 2026 regulations, arguing that drivers should adapt to different car styles and rejecting claims that technology and software have too much influence on performance in Formula 1.
In addition to Bortoleto's statements, Sauber praised the performance of James Key's car, which has surpassed expectations. Nico Hulkenberg also reassured fans about his future with Audi. Overall, the article highlights a sense of stability and confidence within the Audi team as they navigate the challenges of the new regulations and engine formula.
via grandprix.comSainz confirms intention to stay with Williams until 2027Carlos Sainz has expressed his intention to stay with Williams through 2027, despite ongoing rumors connecting him to Audi. He emphasized that Williams is his preferred long-term project.Page 5 of 5