Gabriel Bortleto mentioned he “gave all the things” to realize an “superb” end in Austria regardless of being handicapped by the Audi F1 automotive’s lack of high pace.
Audi Racing Director Alan McNish additionally benchmarked the crew’s total weekend efficiency as one of the best of the season thus far.
The Pink Bull Ring is understood to be a power-sensitive venue, with groups admitting they’re as much as a second per lap behind their rivals on some circuits.
Gabriel Bortleto, Audi F1 Workforce, 2026 Austrian Grand Prix
©XPB Photos
Nonetheless, this automotive is especially sturdy in high-speed corners.
Regardless of the Audis shedding within the straight, the one losers within the midfield battle had been Racing Bulls pair Liam Lawson and Arvind Lindblad, with Nico Hulkenberg chasing Bortleto in twelfth place.
The crew has efficiently carried out a serious improve package deal and Bortleto is inspired by the sturdy begin to the 2026 season.
“I feel I gave it my all,” the Brazilian mentioned in response to a query. crash internet About his afternoon.
“We had been all the time very near VCARB. I feel we had been in a position to keep a five-second lead all through the race. We needed to go a couple of vehicles on the finish, so we misplaced just a little little bit of that lead.”
“However I feel it was just a little shocking. We most likely did not anticipate to be this near them. I feel our tempo was just a little bit higher.”
“Additionally, we lastly received a very good begin to the season, in order that makes me pleased. I feel we have been engaged on enhancing the automotive and it labored this weekend, so I am very pleased.”
Bortleto was significantly inspired by the truth that he had had a very good trip.
“We have put in a whole lot of effort to get began,” he mentioned.
“We have advanced our procedures. Clearly, it relies upon lots on who you begin side-by-side with.”
“The vehicles round me did not appear to have had one of the best begin from Pierre’s aspect, however I had an excellent begin from my aspect, so I managed to get him there.
“Perhaps if I had began alongside the Ferrari energy unit or Colapinto, who often will get superb begins, issues would have been totally different. However I felt fairly respectable.”
Gabriel Bortleto, Audi F1 Workforce, 2026 Austrian Grand Prix
©XPB Photos
Concerning Silverstone, he mentioned: “Let’s examine the way it goes on the lengthy straights. However I feel there are some corners that work properly at excessive speeds. After which we’ll see how the straights go.”
In the meantime, McNish agreed that Austria is a optimistic race for the crew, particularly given the concentrate on PU.
“Truthfully, I feel it was one of the best weekend I’ve ever had when it comes to getting probably the most out of the automotive in each run, free follow, qualifying and the race,” the Scot mentioned in response to a query. crash internet To summarize the efficiency.
“Efficiency on this circuit is all the time going to be a bit tough. Regardless that we launched the upgrades, we really carried out fairly properly. However VCARB had been quicker, in order that’s the tip of the story. And as soon as they get in entrance, it’s totally troublesome to race.”
