This year couldn’t have been more different. With new recruits in the form of veteran Nico Hülkenberg and rising star Gabriel Bortoleto, the pair have been regular points scorers, culminating in the former claiming his first ever podium at the this year’s British GP.
Hülkenberg has five other grand prix points finishes to his name. Though it took Bortoleto almost half the season to finish in the top 10, he has since regularly added to his team’s tally.
Though currently ninth in the constructors’ battle, Sauber is still within touching distance of Racing Bulls in sixth place with three grands prix and a sprint to go.
As well as an improved car, much of the results have come through vastly improved pitstops and race strategy, no doubt helped by new team boss Jonathan Wheatley, who joined in April from his previous role of sporting director at Red Bull.
2026 is a huge challenge for all F1’s teams
Audi
“This journey is not just about the destination but about engaging with the people who make every step possible,” Wheatley has said.
“It is about your mindset, focus, resilience and confidence without complacency. We will face setbacks, but each one will be a learning experience that will lead to new strength.”
Audi F1 2026 driver line-up
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| Nico Hülkenberg | Gabriel Bortoleto |
- Hülkenberg joined from Haas this year, and will lead the team next year
- 2024 F2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto continues in his multi-year deal
Key personnel
Audi F1 CEO
Mattia Binotto
Binotto took over at Sauber last year
Sauber
Mattia Binotto became Sauber’s new Chief Operating and Chief Technical Officer in August 2024, replacing Andreas Seidl, who had headed the project since 2022.
The former Ferrari chief, has emphasised how much work Audi still has to do in getting up to speed with the 2026 regulations, which could well shake up the running order.
“That journey takes time, the right people, and a mindset of continuous improvement,” he said. “Formula 1 is one of the most competitive environments.
“Becoming a champion is a journey of progress. Mistakes will happen, but learning from them is what drives transformation.”
Audi team principal
Jonathan Wheatley
Wheatley now brings his vast experience to Audi
Sauber
Jonathan Wheatley began his F1 journey as a mechanic at Benetton, eventually rising to become Red Bull‘s sporting director.
The Brit was part of the migration of senior staff the away from Red Bull in early 2024 following the Christian Horner‘s workplace misconduct allegations (since dismissed).
Wheatley was announced as Sauber’s new team principal last year and officially joined in April 2025, leading the outfit in its transformation into Audi.
“Our project is more than building a team,” said Wheatley at Audi’s livery reveal. It is about shaping the future of F1 – with talent, visionary partners and the transformation of the Audi brand. We have a mindset that dares to redefine what a racing team can be.”