Ingolstadt/Munich – On Wednesday, November 12, 115 days until the first Formula 1 race, Audi announced a comprehensive vision for its participation in the pinnacle of motorsport.
The R26 concept was unveiled at the Brand Experience Center in Munich. It is a prototype showing the design, livery and new aesthetics of Audi’s first F1 car, and is a symbol of Audi’s new global identity.
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“Participating in F1 is the next chapter in Audi’s rebirth” says the CEO
CEO’sGernot DelnerHe describes his decision to enter F1 as an “ambitious and strategic decision.”
“Taking on the pinnacle of motorsport is a new chapter in the company’s renewal. F1 will be the catalyst to make Audi more agile, faster and more innovative.”
Dörner emphasized that the goals are clear and realistic.
“We don’t just want to be in F1. We want to be a team competing for world titles by 2030. It takes time to become a top team, but determination, time and the constant pursuit of growth will get us there.”
R26 concept opens Audi’s new visual identity
The R26 Concept is the first full embodiment of the new design language that will be adopted in both F1 cars and production cars. The design features a minimal surface structure, precise geometric lines, and a color combination of titanium, carbon black, and the new Audi Red color.
In addition, F1-related visual material features the iconic Audi four rings in red, underscoring the new visual strategy.
Chief Creative Officer Massimo Frascella said:
“We are introducing a design language that connects all aspects of the organization. The F1 project is a precursor to this new identity, which will extend across the brand.”
F1, technology and strategy: Audi’s new pillars
Audi sees F1 as the ideal stage to demonstrate its philosophy of “Vorsprung durch Technik” to the world. F1 reaches more than 820 million fans and is expected to reach 1.6 billion viewers in 2024, with teams valued in the billions across the board.
CFO Jürgen Rittersberger emphasizes the economic potential.
“The sheer size of F1’s audience presents us with the opportunity to reach new customers, particularly among younger generations. Budget constraints make projects more sustainable and economically viable.”
The future F1 team has already confirmed three global partners: adidas, BP and main sponsor Revolut.
Complete acquisition of Sauber and strengthened technical team
In order to enter F1, Audi fully acquired the Sauber Group at the beginning of the year, allowing it to be invested by Qatari sovereign funds. The project will be led by two experienced people: Mattia Binotto, formerly of Ferrari, and Jonathan Wheatley, formerly of Red Bull, who will both report directly to the CEO.
Driver lineup combines experience and youth: GermansNico Hulkenbergand Braziliangabriel voltrate。
The history and innovation engraved on the circuit is in our DNA
Audi has a history of winning in categories as diverse as rally, Le Mans prototypes, hybrids, electric vehicles, and even the Dakar Rally. Entering F1 is an effort to continue this innovative tradition.
New technology regulations for 2026, with a focus on electrification and sustainable fuels, will require all teams to adapt at the same time, creating an ideal situation for new entrants.
German powertrain and accelerated development
Since 2022, Audi has been developing a hybrid powertrain for its 2026 car in Neuburg an der Donau:
- 1.6 liter V6 turbo engine
- ERS system including MGU-K and energy storage
- electronic control unit
- Gearbox integrated with powertrain
The power output of the electric motor will be tripled compared to current concepts, reaching a level comparable to that of an internal combustion engine, and will be powered by sustainable e-fuel supplied by BP.
Two years into the project, the powertrain has already been dynamically tested in race simulations, and the first circuit-ready units will begin shipping in December.
3 base operations: Germany, Switzerland, UK
The factory in Hinwil, Switzerland, is in charge of chassis manufacturing and circuit-related work. The new technology office in Bicester, UK will provide direct access to the Motorsport Valley technology ecosystem.
The biggest advantage is the deep integration between engine and chassis.
Official announcement and debut season
The official announcement of the team will take place in January 2026, followed by a closed-door test in Barcelona. Public testing will take place in Bahrain from February 11th to 20th. Audi’s long-awaited F1 debut will begin at the Australian Grand Prix from March 6th to 8th, 2026.
Source/Image: Audi MediaCenter. This article was supported by AI and underwent final review by the editorial department.
