Bottas Sets Realistic Goals for Audi’s F1 Debut in 2026: Aiming for Points, Not Wins

Valtteri Bottas openly sets a realistic goal for Audi's debut in 2026

"Entering a new sport and competing with long-established manufacturers is a challenging task."

Valtteri Bottas believes aiming for victories in Audi's debut Formula 1 season is overly optimistic.

However, he is confident that the new initiative will consistently achieve success in its inaugural year.

Nico Hulkenberg stands as the sole official driver for Sauber in the upcoming season, prior to the team's complete transformation into Audi, the prominent German car maker aiming to create significant impact in 2026.

Bottas aspires to continue partnering with Hulkenberg.

Audi has strategically planned its entry to coincide with the introduction of the new Formula 1 engine rules.

"Bottas indicated to Sky Sports that he anticipates next year will likely remain challenging."

"Expect no wonders. It's futile to invest an insane amount of work into 2025 due to the significant transformations set for 2026."

Based on my observations, Audi has the potential to be a strong contender in 2026. However, achieving this will certainly be challenging.

"Entering a new sport is challenging, especially against brands that have established their presence over many years."

"Achieving success by 2026 is possible, yet expecting immediate victories is quite ambitious. This is the tough truth we must face."

"Based on my observations, it's entirely feasible for a new team to consistently score."

"This is merely conjecture and surmise."

Bottas shared the reasons behind his confidence, highlighting the overhaul in regulations, Audi's commitment to the initiative, and the team involved.

Currently, Sauber finds themselves trailing behind in the competition.

In 2024, they stand as the sole Formula 1 team yet to earn any points. Both Bottas and his teammate, Zhou Guanyu, are facing ongoing challenges.

Bottas expressed their outlook for the remainder of the year, stating, "I'm not anticipating any wonders. We've got improvements scheduled for October."

"I don't anticipate anything outlandish, but there's room for enhancement."

"Earning points this year will pose a challenge."

For someone with Bottas' level of expertise and prestige, going through a season without scoring any points would not reflect well on his resume.

"Clearly, that would be unfavorable," he stated.

"I'm not familiar with the historical context, but it's a rare occurrence for a number of teams."

Reflecting on the total points I've accumulated over my career would pose a challenge.

"Regrettably, the chances are diminishing with every passing weekend."

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