Former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone has high expectations for Audi’s new Formula 1 team. The German formation takes Sauber’s place this year and starts immediately with its own powertrain. The driver lineup remains unchanged, with veteran Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. According to Ecclestone, the latter is a formidable competitor and possibly even a future world champion.
After a difficult shakedown in Barcelona, Audi performed better during the past test weeks in Bahrain. Hülkenberg and Bortoleto were able to test the brand-new R26 largely without problems. The gray livery of this first Audi car may not look very spectacular, but according to experts, there is certainly potential under the hood. Especially the sound of the new Audi engine stood out: compared to the competition, the powertrain sounds a lot more impressive.
‘Audi can certainly be competitive’
Ecclestone is curious about what Audi can achieve in its debut year and warns that the German team should not be underestimated. “They have all the ingredients for a successful first year in Formula 1,” he judged to Sport.de. “All teams are close together, so Audi can certainly be competitive.”
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In addition, Ecclestone is looking forward with interest to Bortoleto’s second season. The young Brazilian already impressed in his rookie year and now seems to have even better equipment. Will he make his mark in 2026? “Bortoleto will give Hülkenberg a run for his money,” Ecclestone predicted. “He is lightning fast and a potential world champion.” However, the 95-year-old Englishman expects someone else to take the top prize this year. “Mercedes has an edge,” he concluded. “George Russell has the talent, but he must maintain that winning mentality throughout the season.”
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View the 2026 F1 calendar here
