P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Audi has started the 2026 season strongly, but could the Formula 1 spring break halt this charge?
Audi has had a strong start to the 2026 Formula 1 season, and Gabriel Bortoleto is determined to maintain this momentum despite the disruption caused by the new regulations and the unscheduled spring break. The cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix due to Middle East conflict has led to a five-week break in the F1 calendar between the Japanese and Miami races in April. Although all teams face the same break, it poses a risk of interrupting the positive progress made by teams like Audi at the beginning of the season.
Bortoleto believes that the break will not excessively affect their team due to the advanced tools and facilities available for off-track development, such as simulator sessions and dyno work. To keep the positive momentum going, Bortoleto has scheduled simulator days in Switzerland and Germany to optimize time and focus on car development. Despite only scoring two points so far, Audi has been a consistent challenger in the midfield and aims to score more points in upcoming races.
The break could also provide an opportunity for Audi to reset after the sudden departure of team principal Jonathan Wheatley and allow team personnel to have some much-needed family time after extended work hours. Bortoleto acknowledges the hard work put in by the team personnel and believes they deserve the break to recharge and spend time with their loved ones.
