Jonathan Wheatley Expresses Pride in Audi's Bold Progress During Bahrain Testing

As Audi ramps up preparations for their Formula 1 entry in 2026, team principal Jonathan Wheatley is 'proud' of the progress shown during the first pre-season test in Bahrain. Taking over the former Kick Sauber team and developing their own power unit, Audi demonstrated cohesion and innovation in the desert.

Following a pioneering run at the Barcelona Shakedown—where they were the first to track their 2026 car—Audi delivered a smoother performance in Bahrain. Drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto accumulated significant laps, aided by a visible upgrade package that featured new bodywork, drawing positive feedback from Hulkenberg and paddock observers.

Wheatley attributed the step forward to integrating chassis and powertrain experts in a compressed winter timeline. "I’m encouraged that you’ve noticed that from the outside, because certainly internally, we’ve brought together these two groups of very, very talented people... and towards the end of this week now it’s starting to really look like how an F1 team should operate inside the garage," he said.

Emphasizing the holistic nature of testing, Wheatley highlighted logistics, communications, and engineering as key areas tested alongside the car. The team restructured over winter, yielding better operational flow even under pressure. Audi passed crash tests, debuted their powertrain early, and introduced unique aero solutions—markers of their seriousness tempered with humility.

"If you look, we passed our crash tests, we were the first team to be on track, we ran in Barcelona with a brand-new powertrain, and we’re here with a new aerodynamic package. It shows the ambition of the team. I think also it shows the boldness and creativity, because nobody else has come up with this solution," Wheatley added.

While acknowledging the 'long road ahead,' Audi's Bahrain test underscores their potential as a competitive force in 2026.