Sep.1 (GMM) Audi is preparing a development push as its first Formula 1 season begins to stabilise, with a long-planned gearbox change for Monza followed by a much larger aerodynamic package at Baku.
Motorsport-Magazin reports that Audi will introduce revised gear ratios in Italy after engineers concluded early in the season that first gear was too short and eighth gear too long.
The change has taken around 24 weeks to produce, with Audi using the special gearbox-ratio allowance available under the new regulations.
Audi has already improved its launch performance since introducing a smaller turbocharger in Barcelona, but the report says clutch hardware and control remain areas for improvement.
The bigger visual change is expected in Baku.
Although much of Audi’s development focus has already turned towards 2027, Motorsport-Magazin says the R26 will receive a substantial aerodynamic update there, with an insider describing the car as set to look “completely different”.
That comes as Audi’s recent form has improved markedly, with points in each of the last four races after seven consecutive scoreless rounds earlier in the season.
And amid the latest driver-market movements, Audi senior figure Allan McNish has made clear the team is satisfied with Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto.
“I think we’re very fortunate, to be honest with you, with Nico and Gabi, because they complement each other very well,” said the Scot.
“As I stand here today, I think actually, for us and where we are, it is the perfect combination.”
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
There are motorsport events, and then there is the Indianapolis 500, the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing." Next year marks Grand Prix Tours' 42nd Indianapolis 500 tour and our decades of experience and local connections provide exclusive access that few fans ever enjoy, including police escorts on race day, a Dallara IndyCar Factory tour, Gasoline Alley and Legends Day, the Driver Introduction Ceremony, and a private dinner with former Indy driver Derek Daly. Combined with excellent hotel accommodations, seamless event planning, and Grand Prix Tours' signature service, this is far more than a race weekend; it's a once-in-a-lifetime motorsport experience. With tour spaces limited each year, we encourage you to reserve your place early for the 111th Indianapolis 500.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Formula 1 at its most iconic with an unforgettable trip to the 2027 Grand Prix de Monaco. Feel the excitement as the world’s best drivers race through the legendary streets of Monte Carlo, surrounded by superyachts, Mediterranean views, and the unmistakable glamour of Monaco. From incredible race viewing to carefully selected accommodations, Grand Prix Tours brings you closer to the action at one of the most prestigious and spectacular events in all of motorsport.
SHOW PACKAGES
The 24 Hours of Le Mans is the ultimate test of speed, strategy, and endurance. Watch the world's top manufacturers battle for 24 nonstop hours in one of motorsport's most prestigious events. With Grand Prix Tours handling your accommodations, transfers, and ticket options, all that's left is to experience this unforgettable bucket-list race.
SHOW PACKAGES
Feel the roar of Formula 1 at its spiritual home. Silverstone is one of the fastest and most demanding circuits in the world, where brave overtakes, lightning-fast direction changes, and flat-out commitment separate the best from the rest. Combined with the electric atmosphere created by hundreds of thousands of passionate fans, the British Grand Prix delivers a race weekend unlike any other.
SHOW PACKAGES