Audi retain Hülkenberg and Bortoleto for 2027

According to the English-language edition of RacingNews365, Audi have exercised the extension clauses in both drivers’ contracts. Binotto told the media present that the drivers were already under contract, so the team knew the line-up would not change. He said he was happy with the combination of Hülkenberg’s experience and Bortoleto’s development.

In Hülkenberg’s case, the team principal particularly values his consistent race performances. According to Binotto, the German makes few mistakes, gets a lot out of the car and scores points when opportunities arise. He explicitly views Bortoleto as a driver who is still learning. Binotto says he sees his confidence growing with each race and praises his pace over a single decisive qualifying lap.

Bortoleto is currently ahead on points: at the time of publication on 24 September, he had ten points to Hülkenberg’s seven. That difference alone does not show who is faster or more consistent over the season as a whole. RacingNews365 also reports that Audi scored points in five of the six most recent Grands Prix, climbing to eighth place in the constructors’ championship as a result.

For Hülkenberg and Bortoleto, 2027 will be their third season together. It will only be the second season under the Audi name: the manufacturer made its debut in 2026 with its own power unit, following the takeover of the Sauber factory in Hinwil.