Nico Hülkenberg Defends Audi’s Struggle as 2026 Season Turns Corner

**Nico Hülkenberg has brushed off Audi’s dismal start to the 2026 Formula 1 season**, telling *RacingNews365* that reliability woes and a rocky nine-race campaign are to be expected for a team building engines from scratch. With just six points-all scored by teammate Gabriel Bortoleto-and four retirements for Hülkenberg, the German insists progress is being made behind the scenes.

Hülkenberg’s season has been defined by misfortune: a car fire at Miami, a gearbox failure at Silverstone, and a gravel-triggered kill-switch shutdown in Barcelona. Yet the 35-year-old insists the struggles stem from Audi’s first-time engine development. *“We did everything from scratch-engine, gearbox, hydraulics,”* he said. *“It was always going to be a headwind, especially early on.”*

Comparing Barcelona and Bahrain tests to now, Hülkenberg notes significant power-unit improvements. Audi’s first engine upgrade-introduced ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix-focused on driveability, not raw power. *“Neuburg’s team has been reactive,”* he said. *“Every time we run the car, we learn more.”* But rivals like Mercedes and Ferrari still hold a clear advantage.

Despite the points drought, Audi values Hülkenberg’s experience. *“His feedback and contributions behind the scenes are invaluable,”* team sources confirm. The veteran’s ability to dissect issues-like the Barcelona gravel incident-helps accelerate development. *“We’re not surprised by the progress,”* he added. *“They’re already working on future solutions.”*

With the Spanish Grand Prix looming, Audi’s focus remains on refining the power unit. Hülkenberg expects further upgrades but warns results won’t catch up overnight. *“It’s not reflected in the championship yet,”* he admitted. *“But we’re moving in the right direction.”* For now, the team’s patience-and Hülkenberg’s resilience-remain their strongest assets.