Audi unveils its 2026 F1 car!
- Published on 13/11/2025 9:16
- Modified on 14/11/2025 10:47
115 days before its first race, Audi unveiled its Formula 1 project at an event in Munich.
Called the R26 Concept, this single-seater — which is still just a mock-up — foreshadows the first Audi to compete in motorsport’s premier category as early as 2026. A strategic project for the brand, which wants to mark its return to the top levels with rigor and innovation.
The German manufacturer has no shortage of ambition. “We are not entering Formula 1 to make up the numbers. We want to win”, reminded Gernot Döllner, Audi CEO, specifying that the goal of a world title is set for 2030. To achieve this, Audi is relying on the expertise of the Sauber group, now 100% integrated into the company, and on a team led by Mattia Binotto and Jonathan Wheatley, two well-known figures in the paddock.
Visually, the R26 Concept stands out for an ultra-minimalist approach. The lines are clean, the shapes pared down, the hues dominated by titanium and carbon black, highlighted by a new Audi red. A sobriety that contrasts with the more expressive liveries of its rivals. Some will see an elegant choice, others will regret a lack of boldness, bordering on dull—especially for a brand that has often embodied the aesthetic avant-garde.
Audi is not making things easy for itself
Under this measured appearance, Audi promises a concentration of technology. Above all, Audi has chosen to develop its own engine. A huge risk when you see, for example, that Alpine gave up the Renault unit to source from Mercedes, effectively ending Renault’s F1 engine activity. The powertrain, developed in Neuburg an der Donau, pairs a 1.6-liter hybrid V6 powered by sustainable fuels with an electric motor three times more powerful than the current one. The first complete single-seater is due to be presented in January 2026. Shortly after, the first official tests with the new cars will take place in late January in Barcelona, behind closed doors. Other tests will be held in Bahrain (February 11–13 and 18–20), where the Audi team will run in public for the first time.
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With more than 820 million fans worldwide, F1 represents a major technological and marketing showcase for Audi. And while its inaugural livery may not turn every head, the brand hopes that its performance will speak for itself at the season-opening race of 2026 in Melbourne (Australia) from March 6 to 8.
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This page is translated from the original post "Audi dévoile sa F1 2026 !" in French.
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