Nico Hulkenberg is targeting another strong result for Audi at the 2026 United States Grand Prix as the German team attempts to close the seven-point gap to Haas in the Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship. With six races remaining, Audi is determined to carry its recent progress into Austin and challenge its American rival for seventh place in the standings.
The battle has become increasingly competitive following the Singapore Grand Prix, where Nico Hulkenberg scored points in both the Sprint and the main race at Marina Bay. Despite Oliver Bearman’s sixth-place finish in the Singapore Sprint, the Audi driver’s double points finish allowed the German outfit to increase the pressure on Haas ahead of its home race in Texas.
For Audi, the upcoming sequence of three consecutive race weekends in the Americas represents an important opportunity to strengthen its position. Both Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto are determined to maximise their results as the championship enters its final stages.
Nico Hulkenberg targets another strong Audi result at Austin
Nico Hulkenberg arrives at the Circuit of The Americas hoping to repeat or improve upon his performance in Singapore. The 39-year-old German has previously achieved sixth place twice at Austin, which remains his best Formula 1 result at the Texas venue.
After helping Audi collect valuable championship points at Marina Bay, Nico Hulkenberg is confident that the team can continue its progress, although he recognises the importance of maintaining consistency from one weekend to the next.
“Singapore was a great way to finish that triple-header, and it was nice to reward the team with some important points,” Nico Hulkenberg commented. “We certainly enjoyed it, but in Formula 1 you’re only as good as your last performance, so now the focus is entirely on Austin.
“COTA is a fantastic circuit to drive, with a good mix of fast corners, technical sections and opportunities for some proper racing. The Texas fans always bring great energy as well. We have another three intense weeks ahead, so it will be good to get straight back on track. Hopefully, we can put ourselves in a good position and give the team another reason to celebrate.”
The German driver’s confidence reflects Audi’s determination to build on its recent improvements rather than regard the Singapore result as an isolated success. With Haas only seven points ahead, another productive weekend could prove valuable in the fight for seventh place.
Gabriel Bortoleto hopes to end difficult points drought at United States GP
While Nico Hulkenberg has recently delivered important results for Audi, Gabriel Bortoleto is still searching for his first points finish since the Belgian Grand Prix in mid-July.
The Brazilian endured a particularly difficult Malaysian Grand Prix before being forced to retire in Singapore. Both events took place at circuits where Gabriel Bortoleto had never previously raced, adding to the challenge of his recent weekends.
Having come close to the top ten on several occasions, Gabriel Bortoleto now hopes to convert that potential into a positive result in Austin and end his difficult run.
“Austin is always a fun weekend with a fantastic atmosphere, so I’m happy to be returning to Texas,” Gabriel Bortoleto explained. “Things haven’t gone exactly as I hoped in the last few races, so I’m really motivated to get back on track and try again this weekend.
“We’ve been close to the top ten on several occasions, and I really want to turn those performances into a good result. We’re now starting a run of three consecutive races, and I’m ready to give it everything. Hopefully, we can start this triple-header in the best possible way.”
For Gabriel Bortoleto, the United States Grand Prix represents an opportunity to put his recent disappointments behind him. A return to the points would also provide a valuable contribution to Audi’s Constructors’ Championship ambitions.
Audi and Haas separated by seven points in F1 Constructors’ Championship
With six Grands Prix remaining in the 2026 season, the battle between Audi and Haas remains finely balanced. The seven-point difference between the teams leaves the German newcomer within reach of seventh place, making every opportunity to score increasingly important.
Haas will be competing at its home Grand Prix in Austin, adding another dimension to the midfield contest. Audi, meanwhile, will be hoping that the momentum established in Singapore can continue throughout the demanding run of consecutive races in the Americas.
Nico Hulkenberg’s recent performances have strengthened the team’s position, but Gabriel Bortoleto’s return to the points could prove equally important if Audi is to overtake its rival before the end of the championship.
The immediate objective is to maximise the opportunities available at the Circuit of The Americas. With both drivers motivated to deliver and the midfield standings still closely contested, the United States Grand Prix could represent another significant step in Audi’s first Formula 1 season.
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