Audi’s Formula 1 project is making sure its brightest young talent isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
According to a recent interview published by Motorsport Brasil, Brazilian driver Gabriel Bortoleto has officially confirmed that he has signed a multi-year contract extension to remain with the Swiss-German manufacturer.
The confirmation shuts down any paddock speculation regarding the young star’s future as Audi navigates its debut season as a full works team in 2026.
When asked about his contract status by the publication, the 21-year-old was incredibly direct about his commitment to the team, emphasizing the strength of the agreement.
“As far as I can say, because it’s something confidential – let’s say there are no clauses,” Bortoleto revealed. He further clarified the timeline of the deal, adding, “I’ll be with Audi next year. Not only next year, but the following years as well.”
The explicit mention of “no clauses” is highly notable in Formula 1, where driver contracts are notoriously riddled with performance exit clauses, team option years, and chassis-performance outs. Bortoleto’s statement suggests a rigid, mutual long-term commitment between the driver and the manufacturer.
Audi F1 Building Around a Rising Star
Audi’s decision to lock down Bortoleto for the long term aligns with their strategy of blending youth with the veteran experience of his 37-year-old teammate, Nico Hülkenberg.
After dominating the junior categories and winning the 2024 FIA Formula 2 Championship in his rookie season, Bortoleto made his F1 debut with the Sauber team in 2025. He impressed immediately, scoring 19 points during his rookie campaign.
As the team officially transitioned into the Audi factory squad for the current 2026 season, Bortoleto has continued to act as the undeniable anchor for the team’s early progress. Through the first half of the 2026 season, Bortoleto has scored 10 of Audi’s 12 total championship points. His recent eighth-place finish at the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps currently stands as the team’s best result of the year.
By securing an ironclad multi-year agreement, Audi is clearly signaling that Bortoleto is not just a placeholder, but the foundational piece they intend to build their championship ambitions around for the foreseeable future.