Audi, in Montreal for redemption
Audi is preparing to face the Montreal weekend, and it will do so under the pressure of those called to provide solid answers. The four-ring brand was a highly anticipated newcomer and started its F1 adventure surprisingly, earning applause and points in Melbourne thanks to Gabriel Bortoleto. Already in Australia, however, the signs of the big problem afflicting Audi were noticeable: reliability. Even in Miami, Nico Hülkenberg suffered a double retirement (not even starting the Sprint), while Bortoleto encountered brake issues in the Sprint Qualifying.
The two-week break gave Mattia Binotto’s team time to work on the R26, also because now comes Montreal, a complete track that demands a lot from the car in terms of brakes and traction, but also from the engine considering the long straight before the finish line. These are all weak points for Audi, which is therefore aiming for a solid and cleaner weekend compared to the one in Florida.
Hülkenberg’s words
“Montreal is always a great event to return to: it’s an iconic circuit, the atmosphere in the city and on track makes the weekend really enjoyable,” commented Hülkenberg. “After Miami, the most important thing for us is to bounce back quickly and put together a generally cleaner weekend. We know we have the potential to do well, but it’s about giving our best from the start to the end of the event. Sprint events always make everything more hectic, so it will be important to build our confidence at the beginning of the weekend.”
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Bortoleto’s words
“I can’t wait to return to Canada,” added Bortoleto. “Montreal tends to offer rather beautiful races and the atmosphere surrounding it makes this weekend special for both drivers and fans. Having raced here last year, I know well how important it is to feel comfortable with the car right away, especially since it’s a Sprint event. The goal is to put together a cleaner weekend compared to Miami and make the most of the time we have on track.”
