Audi retain Bortoleto and Hulkenberg for 2027

Audi have ended uncertainty over their Formula One line-up by confirming Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hulkenberg for the 2027 season. The decision keeps the Brazilian and German in place as the team continues its progress in the championship.

The announcement came on Thursday at the start of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend, where the first two practice sessions were held. Bortoleto, 21, and Hulkenberg, 39, are both tied to Audi on long-term contracts, making the confirmation the expected outcome. Their places had not been under serious consideration, and the team had not opened discussions about replacing either driver.

The pair entered the 16th round of the season next to each other in the drivers’ standings, with Bortoleto 14th and Hulkenberg 15th. Audi’s recent form has strengthened the case for continuity: one of its cars has finished inside the top 10 in five of the last six Grands Prix. The team is eighth in the constructors’ championship, which contains 11 teams.

Retaining both drivers gives Audi a settled line-up for its next campaign. Bortoleto brings youth to the partnership, while Hulkenberg provides experience as the team seeks to build on its improved results.