Flying start for Audi

Years of intensive preparation were condensed into an extraordinary qualifying session at the Albert Park Grand Prix circuit on Saturday, with the Audi Revolut F1 Team claiming a spot in Q3 in its first qualifying session ever. Both drivers acquitted themselves admirably throughout the practice sessions on Friday and Saturday morning before turning that strong running into an outstanding result for Sunday’s main event.

Gabriel Bortoleto’s 1:20.221 in Q2 was enough to cement the team’s position in the Top 10, despite not coming out for Q3 due to a technical issue. His teammate Nico Hulkenberg set a fastest time of 1:20.303 which sees him start in 11th just behind Bortoleto – an extraordinary job for the teams’ first Formula 1 race.

“It was a tremendously encouraging qualifying session for the team, and seeing Gabi reach Q3 at the very first race for the Audi Revolut F1 Team is a special moment for everyone involved,” said Audi Revolut F1 Team Principal, Jonathan Wheatley.

“Unfortunately, we experienced a technical issue at the end of Gabi’s final run which prevented him from participating in Q3, and Nico also had a small problem that affected his last run in Q2.

“Overall, this is a very positive start for the team. It’s both encouraging in terms of performance, and a testament to the collective effort of so many talented people across the organisation.”

The result sent all those at the Audi Trackside suite into raptures, the three storey structure in prime position on the main straight of the Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit a hive of activity, hosting special events in the lead up to the weekend as well as welcoming the Audi faithful to enjoy the race weekend in the most luxurious way possible.

On Thursday night it was the venue for the official Audi Revolut F1 Team launch event which also saw the first appearance in Australia of the all-new RS 5 Avant. Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hulkenberg did the honours, pulling back the dust covers of the brand’s newest performance special and the first plug-in hybrid from Audi Sport. The car has since attracted tremendous attention out the front of the suite, which also features the stunning Auto Union Type C in the lobby.

In addition to the box seat from observing the on-track action, Audi guests have also enjoyed a menu of culinary treats designed by Audi ambassador Guillaume Brahimi, as well as gaining insights into the Audi Revolut F1 Team’s workings from three-time Le Mans winner and Director of Driver Development for the Team, Allan McNish.

Guests have also had the opportunity to hear from the CEO of the Audi Revolut F1 Team, Mattia Binotto, who took time away from the frenzied activity in the team garage to visit the suite and share insights on the goals of the team now and into the future.

Excitement continues to build with such a promising start for the team and the atmosphere will be nothing short of electric at the Audi Trackside Suite for the running of the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Australian Grand Prix.