Audi is targeting another points finish at the 2026 Italian Grand Prix as it heads to Monza with growing midfield momentum but continuing concerns over reliability. Technical problems and retirements have had a major impact on the German manufacturer’s position in the Constructors’ Championship, making a clean weekend particularly important at the Temple of Speed.
Since Formula 1 returned from the summer break, Audi has been able to maintain its recent presence in the points thanks to Nico Hulkenberg’s eighth-place finish at Zandvoort. The result provided another encouraging sign for a team that has become increasingly competitive in the tightly packed midfield.
Audi targets more points at Monza despite reliability concerns
Reliability nevertheless remains one of Audi’s biggest uncertainties. Retirements have significantly affected the team’s championship position during its first Formula 1 season as a works operation, meaning the potential of the car has not always been reflected in the results.
With the midfield margins still extremely small, Nico Hulkenberg believes execution will again be crucial at Monza. The German arrives in Italy encouraged by his eighth place at the Dutch Grand Prix and hopes Audi can continue its recent run.
“It’s always good to be back at Monza. One of the real classics, with so many passionate fans and a place where you really enjoy driving a Formula 1 car. The midfield is still incredibly close, so the focus is on putting together another clean weekend and seeing where that leaves us,” Nico Hulkenberg said.
The narrow gaps between the teams mean even small gains or mistakes can have a major impact on the final result, while Audi continues to chase its rivals in the 2026 Formula 1 championship standings.
Gabriel Bortoleto targets Monza comeback at a special circuit
Gabriel Bortoleto will be looking to return to the points at Monza after missing out at Zandvoort. The Italian Grand Prix carries particular significance for the Brazilian because he lived in Italy during his junior racing career and has enjoyed strong results at the circuit in recent years.
“Monza is always a weekend with special meaning for me: I lived in Italy during my junior career and I’ve also had good results here in recent years,” Gabriel Bortoleto explained.
“Overall, racing at the Temple of Speed is always something you look forward to. We’ve been competitive in the last few races, so hopefully we can continue on this path this weekend as well and achieve a good result.”
For Audi, Monza therefore represents another opportunity to confirm the progress shown in recent rounds. Nico Hulkenberg’s Zandvoort result demonstrated that the team can compete near the front of the midfield when it delivers a clean weekend, while Gabriel Bortoleto will be aiming to convert his recent pace into another points finish.
The main question remains whether Audi can combine that improving performance with the reliability required to maximise its opportunities. In such a closely fought midfield, avoiding technical setbacks could prove just as important as outright pace when Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto take on the Italian Grand Prix.
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