Hülkenberg Holds Off Russell as Audi F1 Scores Big in Singapore

[Source: Audi Revolut F1 Team]

There are few places on the Formula 1 calendar more demanding than Singapore. The tight street circuit, oppressive heat, and unforgiving barriers make the Marina Bay Street Circuit a challenge for even the most experienced drivers. But Nico Hülkenberg was up to the task, delivering one of his strongest performances of the season and securing four valuable championship points for the Audi Revolut F1 Team.

Starting from 10th on the grid, Hülkenberg wasted little time making progress. A strong opening lap moved the German up the order, putting him in position to fight for points. From there, it was a matter of managing his tires, maintaining his pace, and keeping the competition behind him. That last part proved particularly challenging.

Mercedes driver George Russell spent the closing stages applying relentless pressure, but Hülkenberg refused to surrender his position. Despite driving the less competitive car, the Audi driver held his ground to finish eighth, securing the team’s best Grand Prix result of the season.

“What a way to finish the weekend,” said Hülkenberg. “I think we maximised the opportunities we had, starting with a strong first lap that put us in a good position for the race.”

Unfortunately, the other side of the Audi garage had a much less enjoyable evening. Gabriel Bortoleto started 14th but retired early with a suspected gearbox issue. The Brazilian never had an opportunity to demonstrate what he could accomplish on a circuit where overtaking is notoriously difficult.

Nevertheless, Singapore represented an important step forward for Audi.

Combined with two points earned during Saturday’s Sprint, Hülkenberg’s eighth-place finish gave Audi six points for the weekend. It was also the first time the team scored points in both the Sprint and the main Grand Prix.

Audi now has 23 championship points, putting it just seven points behind seventh place in the Constructors’ Championship. For a team still finding its footing in its debut Formula 1 season, that represents meaningful progress. Next up is Austin, where Audi will look to build on its Singapore momentum.