The Stake F1 team has wrapped up its final season under the iconic Sauber name, finishing ninth in the Constructors’ Championship with a respectable 70 points across a challenging 24-race calendar in 2025. This season was a thrilling blend of youthful promise and the reliability of seasoned experience, all while the Swiss team gears up for a monumental transformation into the Audi works team.
Nico Hulkenberg, the German stalwart, rose to the occasion, racking up an impressive 51 points and solidifying his reputation as one of the grid’s most reliable talents. The pinnacle of his season came at the historic Silverstone circuit, where he finally clinched his long-awaited maiden podium after an astonishing 239 Grand Prix starts. Starting from 19th position in unpredictable wet-dry conditions, Hulkenberg showcased his skill by deftly navigating the chaos to finish third, thrilling the British crowd as he held off the legendary Lewis Hamilton in a breathtaking finale. His remarkable consistency was crucial for the team’s point-scoring strategy, leading to 14 top-ten finishes that highlighted his status as a dependable driver.
On the other hand, Gabriel Bortoleto’s rookie season was a rollercoaster ride of raw talent and valuable lessons. The Brazilian finished 19th in the drivers’ standings with 19 points, achieving his best result of sixth in Hungary. The 21-year-old displayed undeniable potential, often outpacing Hulkenberg in qualifying sessions with a narrow 12-11 record that underscored his speed. However, his journey was marred by costly missteps, including a crash during a sprint race in front of his home fans in Brazil and a collision with Lance Stroll in Las Vegas, both of which served as tough but necessary learning experiences. Despite these setbacks, Bortoleto’s ability to reach Q3 on three occasions and secure a seventh-place starting position suggested a bright future ahead.
As we look forward, the 2026 season promises to be a transformative era for the Hinwil-based operation, as Audi officially takes the reins following their acquisition of Sauber. This transition marks a seismic shift, bringing with it the vast resources and long-term commitment that could redefine the team’s trajectory in Formula 1. Both Hulkenberg and Bortoleto will continue their collaboration under the Audi banner, ensuring continuity during this pivotal phase.
The technical framework is already undergoing significant changes, with Mattia Binotto at the helm and Jonathan Wheatley stepping in as team principal. This leadership duo, with experience from Ferrari and Red Bull, is positioned to steer Audi towards promising advancements. The impending 2026 regulations present both opportunities and challenges, with the introduction of increased electrical power and sustainable fuels poised to reshape the competitive landscape. Audi’s extensive investment is evident in their tri-location operation spanning Hinwil, Neuburg, and Bicester, signaling a robust commitment to success.
While Stake’s 2025 campaign demonstrated commendable progress within Formula 1’s midfield, Audi’s arrival heralds even grander ambitions. With substantial manufacturer backing, proven leadership, and a dynamic driver pairing that has already shown flashes of brilliance, the newly branded team is set to become a formidable force to watch as the 2026 season unfolds.
