Audi will debut a distinctive yellow-accented livery at this weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix, paying homage to legendary pre-war driver Tazio Nuvolari. The special design incorporates the same emblematic logo that adorned the Auto Union racing cars that Nuvolari piloted during the 1930s, when Audi was one of four manufacturers comprising the original Auto Union consortium.
The timing and venue for this tribute holds particular significance, as Nuvolari claimed victory at the fourth edition of the Monaco Grand Prix in 1932 while driving for Alfa Romeo. The Italian driver also secured the 1938 Italian Grand Prix for Auto Union, though his racing career was effectively ended by the outbreak of World War Two in 1939, which led to the dissolution of the German government-funded Auto Union team. Nuvolari conducted minimal racing activities following the war and passed away in 1953.
Audi drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto will complement the special livery by wearing matching racing suits throughout the Monaco weekend. The German manufacturer joins two other teams in presenting unique liveries for the prestigious street circuit event, with McLaren celebrating their 1,000th Formula 1 grand prix and Aston Martin showcasing an innovative color-changing design.
The tribute underscores Audi’s connection to motorsport heritage through the Auto Union legacy, with the modern Audi brand now controlling the intellectual property and history of the pre-war racing powerhouse. The yellow accents on the Monaco livery serve as a visual link between contemporary Formula 1 and the golden era of Grand Prix racing that Nuvolari helped define during the 1930s.