P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Audi had a shorter first day of F1 2026 testing than planned.
Audi’s first day of running at the F1 2026 pre-season test did not go as planned, with the team completing the fewest laps among all teams in Barcelona.
Driver Gabriel Bortoleto caused a red flag due to a technical issue that halted his R26 after completing 27 laps in the morning session.
The unspecified technical problem cut Audi’s day short, and they did not return for the afternoon session.
Despite the setbacks, Bortoleto remained positive, acknowledging that such issues are expected during shakedown tests.
Team principal Jonathan Wheatley stated that they are carefully analyzing the technical problem to address it effectively before the next test or the start of the season.
