Schumacher criticizes Audi's communication and Hulkenberg.
"All of this could be improved significantly."
Ralf Schumacher states that Audi's challenging start in Formula 1 is not just about poor performance, describing the organization's internal communication as "a disaster." The first complete season for the German manufacturer under the new regulations has been plagued by consistent technical breakdowns, operational errors, and lackluster competitiveness. Currently, Audi is positioned near the bottom of the constructors’ standings, with many insiders regarding its power unit as only slightly better than the struggling Honda in terms of performance.
Speaking on Sky Deutschland, Schumacher remarked, "I think the way we began isn’t bad at all." However, he quickly highlighted the main issue. "The major problem is the engine, where they are clearly falling behind the competition," he commented. "After Honda, the Audi is likely the second weakest in performance." He noted that this significantly hampers their ability to compete for points against direct competitors.
Moreover, Schumacher expressed concern about the overall environment within the team, indicating that it worries him even more than the car's performance. "Internally, it’s a disaster," he stated. "They are far too reserved, not open, and not friendly enough." "All of this could be improved significantly."
Schumacher also critiqued fellow German Nico Hulkenberg, who has recently stood up for Formula 1’s contentious 2026 regulations despite mounting criticism from drivers and fans. "If you don’t like it, you don’t have to watch," Hulkenberg said when asked about the backlash against the new hybrid era. Schumacher believes that Hulkenberg is not adequately connecting with German fans during Audi's tough debut season. "He’s doing far too little," said Schumacher. "He’s not engaging with his German fans to explain what’s going well and what isn’t. I find that very unfortunate, as we all deserve more from him as the only German in Formula 1."
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