Audi confirms driver line-up for 2027: Bortoleto and Hülkenberg to stay

•September 24, 2026•News, Formula 1

In a move that prioritizes stability as the German manufacturer continues its Formula 1 journey, Audi has officially announced it will retain Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto for the 2027 season.

The decision was confirmed by Audi CEO and Team Principal Mattia Binotto in the lead-up to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. By exercising the extension clauses within their existing contracts, the team has ensured that the veteran Hulkenberg and the rising Brazilian talent, Bortoleto, will continue their partnership for a third consecutive season.

A Strategy of Continuity

Binotto expressed his satisfaction with the decision, noting that the team’s direction was already secured through existing contractual agreements.

“We did not discuss what the proper plan is for the next season. Our drivers were contracted, so we knew that it would be no change,” Binotto explained to the media. “We have a confirmed lineup which we are happy with.”

This sense of stability comes at a pivotal moment for the manufacturer. After transitioning from the Sauber factory in Hinwil to launching its own power unit, Audi has shown consistent signs of progress. The team has managed to score points in five of the last six Grands Prix, moving up to eighth in the Constructors' Championship.

Balancing Experience and Development

The choice to keep the current pairing highlights Audi’s strategic balance between seasoned expertise and raw potential. According to Binotto, each driver brings a distinct and necessary value to the project.

Nico Hulkenberg remains the bedrock of the team's performance. Binotto praised the veteran's ability to exploit the car's potential, particularly during races. “Nico is consistently delivering... his consistency is robust, [making] very few mistakes, always exploiting the potential of the car, and scoring points wherever there is an opportunity,” Binotto remarked.

On the other side of the garage, Gabriel Bortoleto is viewed as a key component of Audi’s long-term growth. While currently leading the driver tally with 10 points to Hulkenberg's seven, the Brazilian is still considered to be in a developmental phase.

“Gabi, being more junior, is still in a learning phase,” Binotto stated. “I can see his confidence growing race by race. He is becoming faster and faster... he is very fast in quali on a single lap when it matters.”

As Audi continues to navigate its ambitious entry into the sport, the decision to maintain this pairing underscores a commitment to building on the momentum gained during their debut seasons.