Audi’s latest aerodynamic upgrade package introduced at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix weekend is meeting the team’s expectations, according to Audi Team Principal Mattia Binotto. The improvements, which include significant changes to several car components, were tested during the practice sessions and have provided valuable insights for the team’s ongoing development efforts.
The upgrade package features 14 new aerodynamic elements, such as revised front and rear wings, a redesigned floor, and a new engine cover arrangement. During the first practice session, only Gabriel Bortoleto ran the upgraded car, allowing a direct comparison with Nico Hulkenberg’s older specification. Binotto noted that the data collected so far suggests the package is delivering as expected, reflecting the team’s careful approach to development.
Currently sitting eighth in the teams’ standings and trailing Haas by four points, Audi is using this upgrade not only to improve performance but also to refine its engineering and production processes. Bortoleto managed a tenth-place finish in FP1 with the new package, narrowly ahead of Hulkenberg. However, both drivers faced challenges in the second practice session, finishing 14th and 15th respectively. Bortoleto mentioned that the car struggled with grip during FP2, which could be attributed to the dusty and low-grip conditions typical of the Baku street circuit.
The upgrade package represents a key step in Audi’s 2026 campaign, aiming to enhance both the car’s aerodynamic efficiency and the team’s overall development capabilities. While the initial results are encouraging, Binotto emphasized that the focus remains on the broader process of engineering and production improvements rather than immediate lap time gains.
Gabriel Bortoleto’s feedback highlighted the influence of track conditions on the car’s behaviour, underscoring the challenges of adapting to Baku’s unique surface. The team continues to gather data and refine the package as the season progresses, with an eye on closing the gap to the midfield rivals.
As Audi works through the details of this upgrade, the team’s position in the championship reflects a competitive but still developing phase. The Azerbaijan package is part of a measured approach to progress, balancing performance targets with the need to build a solid foundation for future races.