Audi has validated a rather unusual car concept under the new 2026 Formula 1 regulations, particularly in the sidepod area, a design direction that few would have initially backed at the start of the project.
Despite these challenges, the former Sauber team has already managed to score points, with Gabriel Bortoleto finishing in the top ten on his debut in Melbourne — a result even Audi’s technical director Mattia Binotto admits he did not fully expect over the winter.
“I would have signed for points in the first race. Some teams are struggling. There is nothing fundamentally wrong with our project. That is important, otherwise we would have had to fix it,” Mattia Binotto explained, expressing confidence in the overall direction of the team.
The Italian believes strongly in the project and remains optimistic about the development trajectory.
If structural issues had been present, resources under the cost cap would have needed to be redirected toward fixing fundamental problems. Instead, Audi can now focus entirely on performance development.
“We can focus on development, on taking the next steps — that is the biggest challenge,” Mattia Binotto said, as reported by Formula1.com.
Audi has significant room for improvement
The gap between Audi and the front-running teams is currently substantial, but Mattia Binotto remains confident in the project’s long-term potential.
When asked where the biggest performance gains could come from, he was clear.
“The biggest margin for improvement is in the power unit. We expected that. We know how difficult it is to build a completely new power unit, so it is not something that surprised us. It is a fact, and it is the biggest challenge.”
Transmission as a key area for progress
The entire project is part of a long-term development plan. As a new manufacturer entering Formula 1, Audi anticipated difficulties and prepared accordingly.
“We have set a general target for 2030. We are focusing on where we are and what is needed. It is not just about power. We are talking about energy efficiency, energy deployment, and drivability. Drivability also includes the gearbox, which is currently quite jerky for us.” – the former Ferrari team boss pointed out.
“The car is unstable under braking and acceleration due to the transmission. Perhaps the gear ratio calibration is not correct, and that is affecting performance,” he added.
Mattia Binotto believes that significant gains are possible if the team addresses these areas correctly, particularly on the transmission and drivability side.
“We can improve by up to one second per lap by working on drivability. From a chassis perspective, I think we have done a good job. On the engine side we are lacking, but we will get there,” he concluded.
Leave a Reply