Hulkenberg and Bortoleto swap cockpits for Audi's 1001 PS Nuvolari supercar ahead of Monaco GP

Audi F1 drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto put the brand’s new Nuvolari supercar through its paces in Monaco ahead of the 2026 Grand Prix weekend, stepping away from race preparations to sample the limited-production machine on hot laps.

Named in honour of pre-war racing legend Tazio Nuvolari, the car is powered by a 4.0-litre biturbo V8 producing 1001 PS. It accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 2.6 seconds, reaches 200 km/h in 6.8 seconds, and is capable of a top speed in excess of 350 km/h.

Hulkenberg was impressed by the car’s overall character. “For me, what truly counts is the overall package — that is, how the car feels, how precisely it responds, and how well performance and drivability complement each other. The Nuvolari really has a lot to offer,” he said. “It’s exciting to see just how much potential this car has, and the power of the high-performance hybrid powertrain — with over 1,000 PS — is truly impressive.”

Bortoleto highlighted the car’s balance and composure at speed. “What stands out immediately is how clean and predictable the car feels on turn-in. There’s basically no understeer, which is impressive given the level of performance,” the Brazilian said. “The balance stays very neutral and precise, giving you the confidence to carry speed through the corners. You can clearly feel how the different systems — especially the aerodynamics and torque distribution — work together as one.”

As a tribute to the car’s namesake, Audi has added yellow accents to its R26 Formula 1 challenger for the Monaco weekend, and Hulkenberg has also unveiled a special-edition helmet in the same vein.

On track, the two drivers qualified 13th and 16th respectively for the Monaco Grand Prix. In the championship, Bortoleto sits 15th in the drivers’ standings and Hulkenberg 18th, with Audi — which joined the grid as a works team in 2026 following its takeover of Sauber — ninth among the constructors.