BERLIN: German automaker Audi on Tuesday unveiled its first-ever Formula One car ahead of its debut in the 2026 F1 season. The team, which entered the sport after acquiring Sauber, aims to “win championships by 2030,” officials said.
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The single-seater, named the Audi R26, sports a predominantly grey livery with the brand’s iconic four rings displayed in red on the rear wing. The design is described as “the most elegant and striking on the grid.” Last year’s Sauber drivers, Nico Huelkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, will continue with the team following the rebranding.
Howdy, Audi 👋#F1 pic.twitter.com/AtOy18IdT1
— Formula 1 (@F1) January 20, 2026
Italian engineer Mattia Binotto, the project chief, said the 2026 F1 regulations provided the ideal opportunity for Audi’s entry into the sport. “This car is the physical embodiment of thousands of hours of hard work from a hugely talented group of people across our facilities,” team principal Jonathan Wheatley added.
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Wheatley emphasised that the launch marks “day one of a long campaign,” with a focus on embedding a “championship DNA” into every aspect of the team. He highlighted a culture of resilience, precision, and continuous performance improvement as central to Audi’s long-term strategy in Formula One.
The Audi R26 will make its track debut next week during closed-door tests at the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit, alongside the ten other F1 teams. Officials say these sessions will allow engineers and drivers to refine setups, gather performance data, and prepare for the first race of the season.
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Audi’s entry into F1 marks a significant milestone for the German manufacturer, signalling its ambitions to compete at the highest level of motorsport. With a combination of experienced drivers, cutting-edge engineering, and a strong performance culture, the team hopes to make a competitive mark from the outset.