Audi has taken a major step toward its historic Formula 1 debut by unveiling the livery of the Audi R26, the car that will spearhead its entry into the championship in 2026. The reveal took place at a high-profile launch event at Kraftwerk Berlin, showcasing the team’s bold new visual identity.
The car displayed at the event was a show car, designed to highlight Audi’s branding and livery philosophy rather than final technical specifications. However, Audi has confirmed that the R26 has already completed an early shakedown, with clearer images expected once official testing begins.
The Audi R26 livery features the brand’s signature Titanium finish, contrasted by exposed carbon fibre and vibrant Lava Red accents—a design language first teased with the R26 concept revealed last year.
After achieving success across multiple motorsport disciplines, Audi is finally joining the Formula 1 grid by taking over Sauber’s operations. The 2026 season also introduces sweeping regulation changes, including new power units with a near 50-50 split between internal combustion and electric power, active aerodynamics, and sustainable fuel blends.
Audi will enter F1 as a full works team, developing its power unit entirely in-house. The integration of chassis development in Hinwil and Bicester, alongside engine development in Neuburg, is a cornerstone of Audi’s long-term strategy.
Mattia Binotto, Head of the Audi F1 Project, described the move as transformational.
“The strategic decision to enter Formula 1 as a full works team is our single greatest asset. This seamless integration gives us total control over our destiny, eliminating compromises and enabling the agility and innovation essential for success.”
Binotto added that the Audi Revolut F1 Team represents a unified vision—“from the engine block to the front wing.”
Audi has set an ambitious target of winning the Formula 1 championship by 2030, while acknowledging the steep learning curve ahead. Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley emphasized the importance of building a strong foundation before chasing titles.
“This is just day one of a long campaign. Our mission is to embed a championship DNA into every fibre of this team.”
Drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, retained from Sauber, will pilot the R26 in Audi’s debut season. Pre-season preparations begin with five days of private testing in Barcelona from January 26, followed by additional sessions in Bahrain before the season opener at the Australian Grand Prix (March 6–8).
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