Audi at 'base camp', with Hulkenberg key to ascent.

      "It's a significant challenge, it's intriguing."

      Audi's Formula 1 initiative is still at "base camp" as it gears up to take over Sauber completely next year, according to project leader Mattia Binotto. "There are still numerous objectives," he shared with the German news agency SID before the Dutch GP. "More podium finishes, even wins. Ultimately, our goal is to secure the title, so there’s still much work ahead."

      Binotto pointed to Nico Hulkenberg, who recently achieved his first podium in F1, as a crucial figure in Audi's ascent. "I want Nico to move towards the front. I am hopeful and confident about it," he stated.

      However, the Italian acknowledged that the works team is still in its nascent stages. "We may not have started our ascent yet, but we have outlined our path to the peak and created our plan," Binotto explained. "We’ll begin the climb very soon."

      He characterized the task as the most thrilling in motorsport. "Establishing a works team from scratch is the most exhilarating challenge in Formula 1," he confirmed. "It's a significant challenge, and it's captivating."

      "In the upcoming six months, much remains to be done. The new car needs to be finalized, and the new power unit needs to be refined and homologated. It's also about the brand, the launch, marketing, and securing sponsors. The challenges in Formula 1 extend beyond just the competitive aspect. We’re taking all necessary steps and progressing in the right direction. However, time is of the essence."

      Former F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone concurred that Audi is making headway, though he acknowledged that the project has faced some "challenges" so far. "Yes, absolutely," he told sport.de. "They’re doing well currently. They've encountered some bad luck at times, but everything will eventually align. It will be exciting to see a major manufacturer enter Formula 1. They've navigated through the challenging phases."

      When asked about Hulkenberg’s significant podium finish, Ecclestone remarked, "His misfortune was not being in the right car for years. That day, everything fell into place for him. He’s a genuine Formula 1 driver."