Bortoleto confirms Audi commitment beyond 2027 – Gabriel Bortoleto has moved to end speculation about his Formula 1 future by confirming that he remains committed to Audi for the coming seasons.
The 21-year-old Brazilian has a multi-year agreement with the German manufacturer and has made it clear that he expects to remain part of its long-term Formula 1 project. His comments come as speculation around the 2027 driver market continues to gather pace.
Speaking to the Brazilian edition of Motorsport.com, Bortoleto said: “I have a long-term contract with Audi. I will be driving for Audi next year. And not just next year, but also the year after.”
The comments indicate that Bortoleto expects to remain with Audi through at least the 2027 season, although the precise duration of his contract has not been officially disclosed.
Recent reports have also suggested that the agreement is multi-year, while Bortoleto has previously indicated that his future is firmly tied to the Audi project.
Audi’s long-term project has Bortoleto’s backing
Bortoleto has repeatedly expressed confidence in Audi’s ambitions despite the challenges facing the manufacturer during its first season as a full factory Formula 1 operation.
The Brazilian believes the current campaign represents only the beginning of a much larger programme, with Audi continuing to develop both its chassis and power unit.
“The intention is, and I’ve said this from the beginning, a long-term project. Mattia [Binotto] always talks about a project until 2030. So, let’s put it that way,” Bortoleto said.
Audi officially announced Bortoleto alongside Nico Hülkenberg in 2024, describing the pairing as a combination of youth and experience. The manufacturer has consistently presented its Formula 1 entry as a long-term undertaking rather than a short-term attempt to compete at the front.
That approach appears to suit Bortoleto, who sees the current period as the foundation for Audi’s future competitiveness.
“This year was the first step with the construction of a new car and a new engine. Next year, the next step will be to implement these things,” he explained.
“My seat is taken” — Bortoleto addresses speculation
With the 2027 driver market already attracting considerable attention, Bortoleto was particularly emphatic when discussing his own position within Audi.
“I can say that my seat is taken,” he stated.
The remark provides a clear indication that Bortoleto does not expect to be displaced as Audi develops its project.
He stopped short of commenting on the future of his experienced teammate Hülkenberg, but was keen to praise the German driver and their working relationship.
“I really enjoy working with Nico. I want to make that clear. He’s fast, experienced, and brings many positive qualities to the team,” Bortoleto said.
Audi has previously confirmed Hülkenberg on a multi-year agreement, meaning the manufacturer appears to have significant continuity within its driver lineup as it builds towards its longer-term ambitions.
Audi’s driver lineup appears settled
Bortoleto’s latest comments are significant because his name has previously been linked with possible moves elsewhere as speculation around the 2027 grid intensified.
That speculation is now difficult to reconcile with the driver’s own assessment of his contractual position.
Audi’s original announcement described Bortoleto as one of the promising talents of the future, while Mattia Binotto highlighted his potential when the deal was confirmed.
For now, Bortoleto’s message is straightforward: his future lies with Audi, and he sees himself playing a central role in the manufacturer’s attempt to turn its new Formula 1 operation into a championship contender.
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