Audi Unveils Its First-Ever Formula 1 Car For The 2026 Season - Details Inside

Audi has officially revealed its first-ever Formula 1 car for the 2026 season. The German carmaker showcased their new race machine at a launch event held at Kraftwerk Berlin. Audi is not just joining F1 as a sponsor or partner, but it is entering as a full works team, which means it designs and builds both the car and the engine.

Audi first announced its wish to enter Formula 1 in August 2022, and after years of preparation, the project is now becoming reality as the team will make its Grand Prix debut at the 2026 Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne by using Audi’s own first Formula 1 power unit.

The car, which is named as the Audi R26, was unveiled with a design featuring titanium, carbon fibre and lava red colours. This livery was first teased at an event in Munich last year and immediately sets Audi apart. Audi chose Berlin for the reveal to highlight its ambition and to symbolise energy, transformation and innovation.

Audi CEO Gernot Döllner described the launch as more than just showing a race car. He called it a “public declaration of a new era for Audi,” stating

that Formula 1 represents the most demanding challenge in motorsport and Audi’s goal is not simply to participate, but to shape the future of the sport through technology, efficiency, and innovation, all while staying true to its famous philosophy, Vorsprung durch Technik.

Audi is realistic about the challenge ahead as Formula 1 is highly competitive and success takes time. However, the company has made its intentions clear that Audi aims to fight for the World Championship by 2030. Head of the Audi F1 Project Mattia Binotto explained that entering F1 as a full works team is Audi’s biggest strength and the team has carefully built its engine programme in Neuburg while connecting chassis development across Hinwil and Bicester.

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Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley, who previously spent nearly 20 years at Red Bull Racing, highlighted the culture Audi wants to build, which is, one based on resilience, precision and constant improvement. According to him, this car represents thousands of hours of work and is only the first step in a long journey.

Audi’s driver lineup features experienced racer Nico Hülkenberg alongside young talent Gabriel Bortoleto. After the Berlin launch, the team will return to Barcelona for Shakedown Week, where all 11 F1 teams will test their cars.