Audi’s F1 debut gathered pace in Bahrain as the team unveiled a refined aerodynamic package, though a brief mechanical stoppage for Nico Hulkenberg provided an early reliability scare.
Red Flags and Rapid Responses
The biggest talking point of the afternoon was a brief but significant reliability scare for the German team.
Nico Hulkenberg triggered a red flag after his R26 ground to a halt just 100 meters from the pitlane entrance.
Despite warning lights flashing on his mirrors during a personal best lap, the Audi crew showed impressive poise. They rectified the undisclosed issue and returned Hulkenberg to the track in just 15 minutes, allowing him to finish eighth fastest, narrowly ahead of teammate Gabriel Bortoleto.
The Sidepod Pivot
While reliability was tested, Audi’s design team showcased their latest performance upgrades.
The team arrived in Bahrain with a striking new design, completely contrasting the approach made at the Barcelona shakedown.
The new sidepod concept appeared to move away from horizontal inlets in favour of a slim, vertical design.
This approach retains the main bodywork but features a more aggressive upper surface.
By refining this geometry, the team aims to enhance the downwash effect, maximising airflow to the rear of the car as they finalise their package for the season opener in Australia
Feature Image courtesy of Formula 1
Further reporting courtesy of Megan Wood