Key Takeaways (TL;DR):
- Accelerated Growth: Audi project leader Mattia Binotto highlighted that Gabriel Bortoleto is building speed much faster during FP1 sessions compared to his rookie year, proving his increasing experience.
- Two Fast Drivers: Binotto rejected labeling the lineup as merely a “veteran and rookie” duo, emphasizing that both Bortoleto and Nico Hülkenberg possess raw speed and strong Sunday racecraft.
- Development Impact: With 10 points scored in 2026, Bortoleto’s analytical feedback has become a central asset in pushing Audi’s project forward.
Despite being in only his second Formula 1 season, Gabriel Bortoleto is already viewed by Audi as an increasingly experienced driver. Project leader Mattia Binotto praised the Brazilian’s dynamic alongside teammate Nico Hülkenberg, emphasizing that the maturity shown every weekend “will pay off in the future.”
Bortoleto has accumulated 10 points in the World Championship so far and has proven fundamental to the vehicle development process due to his analytical approach during race weekends. Furthermore, his raw speed has impressed Binotto.
“We have two strong drivers,” the executive noted in an interview with British outlet PlanetF1. “Our lineup is often described as a rookie alongside an experienced driver. I prefer to define them as two fast drivers, and I think that’s excellent. Both are very quick.”
“Gabi has massive potential. I believe he is constantly evolving. Naturally, time is an important factor for him to build experience. He is in his second season, and you can already see that right from FP1 he reaches the limit—or gets very close to the limit of the car—whereas before it took him longer to find his rhythm on track,” Binotto explained.
“Therefore, this is a phase of learning and refinement. He is becoming more and more experienced. I have no doubt he has talent, and that will play in his favor in the future,” he predicted.
Hülkenberg’s Role and F1 Summer Hiatus
Binotto also spoke about Hülkenberg, emphasizing that the German veteran “has always been very fast and consistent throughout his career, in addition to being extremely solid on Sundays.” Nico scored his first points of the campaign at the Hungarian Grand Prix, crossing the line in ninth place.
Formula 1 is currently on its summer break. Track action for the 2026 season resumes August 21–23 with the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many points has Gabriel Bortoleto scored in the 2026 season?
Gabriel Bortoleto has scored 10 points in the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship.
Who leads the Audi F1 project alongside Mattia Binotto?
Mattia Binotto leads the overall Audi F1 project alongside Racing Director Allan McNish.
