Gabriel Bortoleto and Audi are bringing a touch of São Paulo’s street culture to the F1 grid with a special one-off livery for the Brazilian Grand Prix this weekend. The livery celebrates the city’s distinctive identity, taking inspiration from its iconic sidewalks and incorporating local elements into the team’s appearance for its home race.
Audi revealed the Revolut R26 special livery on social media. The design reflects the Brazilian city’s culture and character through a design that connects the team with the local community. The initiative highlights the importance of São Paulo to Bortoleto, who will compete in front of his home crowd at the Interlagos Circuit.
Watch the R26 green livery here:
Stefano Battiston, Audi F1’s chief brand and commercial officer, explained the thought behind the design, emphasizing the team’s intention to embrace the city’s identity throughout its presence at the event.
“São Paulo has an unmistakable identity, and we wanted that to run through everything we bring to this race,” Battiston said.
Gabriel Bortoleto Targets Haas in the Constructors’ Championship
Speaking to media ahead of Sunday’s São Paulo GP, the 22-year-old driver outlined Audi’s immediate priority in the Constructors’ Championship. The team is currently focused on closing the gap to Haas F1 Team, with drivers aiming to finish inside the points.
“Well, actually, right now we are in the chase for Haas in the championship,” Bortoleto said. “We managed to reduce the points gap between us and them after Mexico points, and, our goal is obviously to score points.
“But, you know, Interlagos, everything can happen. The weather can be crazy, so we are going to be chasing for that goal. The goal is clear, so let’s see what we can achieve.”
Audi currently sits eighth in the standings with 27 points, four points behind Haas.
Gabriel Bortoleto Hopes for a Better Home Race After 2025 Crash
The home race at Interlagos carries additional significance for the Brazilian following his difficult experience in last year’s edition.
His maiden home race weekend was a tough one, as he suffered a severe crash on the final lap of the Sprint race and was knocked out again on the opening lap of the main race.
As he gets ready to race this week, Bortoleto is looking forward to having a more complete experience and spending more time on the track.
“First time at home, you have a crash like that, it’s never good, also in front of my whole country. But this year, you know, it’s different. I’m coming with a new project,” Bortoleto said.
“I just want to enjoy home, enjoy a new weekend in Brazil and hopefully be able to drive in front of my country a little bit more than I did last year.”
With the support of the home crowd and Audi’s special São Paulo-inspired livery, the Brazilian driver will look to deliver a strong performance. He finished eighth on the opening day of practice and will be hoping to continue that form with a Q3 appearance in qualifying.
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