Audi combines Monaco push with long‑term engine plan after Binotto’s chassis praise

Audi arrives in Monaco with growing confidence. After Binotto revealed the team currently holds the fourth‑best chassis on the grid, the German manufacturer now heads into F1’s most iconic weekend aiming to build on its midfield momentum, while also unveiling its brand‑new European hospitality unit in the heart of Monte Carlo.

Audi enters Monaco with rising optimism

The European leg of the 2026 Formula 1 season begins on the streets of Monte Carlo, where the Audi Revolut F1 Team prepares for one of the most demanding weekends of the year. After two consecutive Sprint events, the team returns to a traditional Grand Prix format, a welcome reset as the midfield battle continues to tighten.

The weekend also marks the debut of Audi’s new European hospitality unit, a major milestone for the young works team. Set against the backdrop of the Monaco harbour, the facility becomes a new home base for partners, guests and team personnel throughout the season.

Binotto: “We have the fourth‑best chassis”

In parallel with the team’s preparations, Racing Director Mattia Binotto has offered a revealing assessment of Audi’s competitive position. Based on GPS data from the opening races, Binotto believes Audi currently possesses the fourth‑strongest chassis in Formula 1, a significant achievement for a team still in its early development cycle.

However, he also acknowledges the remaining gap on the power unit side. Audi’s engine programme is progressing, but the major step is planned for 2028, when a new evolution of the power unit will be introduced. Binotto emphasises that the roadmap is clear: the team knows exactly where performance must be found, and the long‑term plan is already underway.

McNish: “Every race is a step forward”

Racing Director Allan McNish underlines the importance of consistency and learning as Audi enters Monaco:

“Every race we complete is a step forward. We are still a young team and there is a lot of work we have to do in every aspect, from performance to reliability to operations. Monaco requires complete confidence from the first lap onwards: it’s another opportunity to keep improving and moving in the right direction.”

McNish also highlights the significance of the new hospitality structure, calling it a major investment in the team’s long‑term presence in the paddock.

Hülkenberg: “Qualifying will be everything”

For Nico Hülkenberg, Monaco is not only a legendary race, it’s also a home weekend:

“Monaco is probably the most iconic race on the calendar. You need to find your rhythm from the very first lap because there’s no room for error. The midfield is extremely close, so nailing qualifying will be crucial.”

With overtaking nearly impossible, Saturday’s performance may define Audi’s entire weekend.

Bortoleto: “Confidence and precision decide everything”

Gabriel Bortoleto returns to the Principality eager to build on the team’s positive spirit:

“It’s one of those circuits every driver wants to do well at. Monaco is all about confidence, precision and getting everything right across the weekend. The atmosphere is always special.”

The Brazilian hopes to capitalise on Audi’s improving form and the strong baseline provided by the chassis.