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Bortoleto Set for Long-Term Future with Audi F1 Team
Brazilian driver Gabriel Bortoleto has indicated he expects to remain with the Audi Formula 1 team for multiple seasons, with some reports suggesting his current deal extends through 2030.
By Michael de Vries - 2026-08-15T12:00:02.000Z - 3 min read
Gabriel Bortoleto has affirmed his expectation of a prolonged tenure with the Audi Formula 1 team, confirming he holds a multi-season agreement with the Swiss-German outfit. The Brazilian driver’s statement provides clarity on his future as the team continues its transition into its full Audi identity, solidifying a key component of its long-term strategy. This commitment suggests a clear vision for the coming years, both from the driver's perspective and that of the manufacturer.
While Bortoleto himself spoke of a deal covering the "next few seasons," some reports have specified the terms of his contract, indicating an agreement that secures his position with the team through the 2030 Formula 1 season. Such a lengthy commitment is a strong signal of confidence from Audi in the young driver, anchoring one side of their future lineup well in advance of key regulatory changes.
Bortoleto initially joined the team in 2025, during what was its final campaign under the Sauber name before the full rebrand as Audi. His arrival coincided with a pivotal period for the squad, as it navigated its identity shift and prepared for the major manufacturer entry. This early integration allowed him to become familiar with the team’s operations and personnel well before the full Audi takeover.
During his debut year in 2025, Bortoleto demonstrated his capabilities by accumulating 19 points in a highly competitive field. This early performance established his presence on the grid and offered an initial indication of his potential within the F1 landscape, particularly given the transitional nature of the team's machinery and structure during that period. Securing points as a rookie is often seen as a crucial step for a young driver.
In the current 2026 season, Bortoleto has continued to be a key points scorer for Audi, further validating the team's investment in him. He has so far contributed 10 points to the team's overall tally of 12, making him responsible for the vast majority of their competitive returns this year. This places him 14th in the drivers' championship standings, currently sitting eight points adrift of a competitor from Haas.
This extended commitment by Bortoleto underscores stability for Audi as it embeds itself further into Formula 1. Securing a driver for the long haul, especially one who has consistently delivered points during these foundational years, suggests a clear strategy for continuity and development within the team’s driver lineup. For Bortoleto, it provides a strong platform to grow with a factory team, allowing him to focus on performance without immediate contractual pressures. The stability could be beneficial as the team works to establish itself as a front-runner.