Audi Revolut F1 Team Wraps 2026 Pre-Season Testing in Bahrain

[Source: Audi Revolut F1 Team]

It is almost time to race. The Audi Revolut F1 Team wrapped up pre-season testing with a busy and productive final day in Sakhir. By the end of the day, Audi had logged 357 laps during the second week of testing in Bahrain. That pushes the team’s total pre-season mileage to an impressive 2,775.649 kilometers, or 851 laps, as preparations ramp up ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season.

Nico Hülkenberg kicked things off in the morning session, completing 64 laps as he worked through the team’s planned program. In the afternoon, Gabriel Bortoleto took over, running both race and qualifying simulations and adding another 71 laps to the tally. With plenty of data gathered and valuable track time under their belts, the focus now shifts from testing programs to race readiness as Audi continues building momentum toward its highly anticipated F1 campaign.

Audi heads into the 2026 Formula 1 season feeling encouraged after an intense and productive pre-season testing program. Mattia Binotto admitted the team began the winter facing a long list of areas to improve but praised the strong response across its operations in Hinwil, Neuburg, and Bicester. While not every issue has been solved, he says meaningful progress has been made and the overall attitude within the team has been a major positive heading toward the season opener.

Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley highlighted just how ambitious the winter has been. Audi relocated hundreds of staff, upgraded its factory and trackside infrastructure, secured new partners, and became the first team to run a 2026-spec car after passing FIA crash tests. The team logged significant mileage and gathered valuable data, though Wheatley emphasized there is still plenty of work to do before Melbourne.

Technical Director James Key called the three-test winter program necessary given the sweeping regulation changes. He noted progress with the race-spec aero package, race simulations, and overall car setup. While reliability and performance still need refinement, he said the car provides a solid foundation.

Drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto echoed the optimism, pointing to the high lap count and steady improvements throughout testing. With pre-season complete, Audi now turns its full focus to Melbourne and the start of its new F1 chapter. Let’s go!