Gallery: Audi’s historic F1 debut at the Australian Grand Prix

Audi’s first Formula 1 race weekend at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne ended with points for the new German entry. Gabriel Bortoleto finished ninth, while Nico Hülkenberg was unable to start the race due to a technical issue.

F1 & MotoGP news to your inbox every day.

The Audi Formula 1 Team made its long-awaited debut in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship at the 2026 Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne. The opening race of the new era brought an encouraging result for the German manufacturer, which managed to score points immediately.

Brazilian Gabriel Bortoleto delivered a clean and consistent performance to finish ninth, securing the team’s first two championship points in Formula 1. Starting from ninth on the grid, Bortoleto stayed out of trouble during the opening laps and maintained a solid pace throughout the race to bring the car home inside the top ten.

Gallery: Audi unveils R26 livery

2026 F1 season Audi Gallery

The other side of the garage experienced a more difficult start to the season. Nico Hülkenberg was unable to start the race due to a technical problem discovered before the Grand Prix, preventing the German driver from taking the grid.

Despite the setback, Audi leaves Melbourne with a positive first impression after scoring points in its first appearance in Formula 1. The team will now focus on improving reliability and performance ahead of the next round of the championship.

Take a look at how Audi’s debut weekend in Melbourne unfolded in the photo gallery.

Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hulkenberg before the 2026 Australian GP | Photo: Audi F1 Team/Getty Images

Gabriel Bortoleto in the action | Photo: Audi F1 Team/Getty Images

Gabriel Bortoleto in the action at the Albert Park | Photo: Audi F1 Team/Getty Images

Bortoleto secured two points for Audi in Australia | Photo: Audi F1 Team/Getty Images

Bortoleto become first Audi driver to score points in F1 | Photo: Audi F1 Team/Getty Images

Tickets to F1 Australia available HERE!

James Whitaker

James Whitaker is a British sports journalist with a strong focus on Formula 1 and MotoGP. Known for his clear and engaging style, he delivers the latest news and easy-to-follow analysis from the fast-paced world of motorsport. His work aims to make the complexities of racing accessible to both hardcore fans and casual readers alike. Whether covering the drama of a Grand Prix weekend, breaking down technical developments or highlighting standout performances, James brings a passion for racing and a journalist’s eye for detail to every story he tells.