Gabriel Bortoleto confirms long-term Audi F1 driver deal

Gabriel Bortoleto has confirmed his long-term future with Audi's Formula 1 team. The 21-year-old Brazilian revealed he has a multi-year contract with the German manufacturer, securing his place in the sport as Audi builds towards its 2030 goals.

What did Bortoleto say about his Audi contract?

Speaking to the Brazilian edition of Motorsport.com, Bortoleto provided clarity on his future. He explained that his deal contains no performance-related exit clauses. "I have a long-term agreement with Audi," Bortoleto said. "I’ll be racing for Audi next year, and not just that, but in the years to follow as well." He joined the team, then still operating as Sauber, for his debut F1 season before the Audi takeover. Bortoleto described the project as one he has always believed in, echoing team principal Mattia Binotto's focus on long-term success by 2030. "This year we’ve taken the first step," he noted. "We’ve designed a new car and a new engine. Next year we’ll take another step forward."

How did Hulkenberg avoid a crash with Bortoleto at Zandvoort?

The Dutch Grand Prix on Sunday, August 28, 2026, nearly saw a major intra-team collision. On a damp opening lap at the banked final corner, Bortoleto spun 360 degrees and stopped briefly in the middle of the track. Teammate Nico Hulkenberg was directly behind him. Hulkenberg explained he reacted instinctively to avoid T-boning the stationary car. "It was scary, sketchy. You’re a passenger," Hulkenberg said. "I tried to react as late as possible and then just instinctively chose a side." Bortoleto suggested he was caught out after reacting to smoke from a crash involving Max Verstappen ahead. Hulkenberg managed to swerve past, later finishing eighth to score four points for Audi. Bortoleto recovered to finish 13th. The result provided a mood lift and confirmed the team's development direction, according to Hulkenberg.

Why are F1 fans talking about Bortoleto's 'Passenger Princess' video?

Separate from his on-track activities, Bortoleto earned praise from fans for a recent social media appearance. In a candid video segment, the driver was brutally honest, with the moment being shared widely online. The clip, titled 'Passenger Princess', resonated with the F1 community for its authenticity, showing a different side of the young driver away from the high-pressure garage environment.

• Gabriel Bortoleto has a confirmed long-term contract as an Audi works driver with no exit clauses.
• At the Dutch GP, teammate Nico Hulkenberg avoided a huge crash after Bortoleto spun directly in front of him.
• Bortoleto's honest appearance in a 'Passenger Princess' video has been praised by F1 fans online.

Bortoleto declined to comment on speculation about Hulkenberg's own future with the team, only confirming his own seat is secure. His focus remains on contributing to Audi's incremental progress, with the next major package of upgrades scheduled for the 2027 season.