Audi Revolut F1 Team took the wraps off its new look with the official team launch at Kraftwerk in Berlin on 21 January, with an immersive event opening the manufacturer’s new chapter.
World-beating icons from Audi heritage gathered in the famous building to welcome the new car, the R26.
"Today marks more than a launch; it marks the public declaration of a new era for Audi," said Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG and chairman of the board of management of Audi Motorsport AG, his input underlining the importance of the move for the brand.
"Formula 1 is the most demanding stage in the world of motorsport, and we are here not just to compete, but to define the future of 'Vorsprung durch Technik.' This project is a catalyst for our entire company, a symbol of our transformation towards a more performance-driven, efficient, and innovative culture. Our philosophy is one of absolute, long-term commitment.
"We understand that success in Formula 1 demands relentless perseverance and Audi Revolut F1 Team is not here to make up the numbers; we aim to be fighting for the World Championship by 2030."
Audi became the second team to reveal its livery for the new season, using the Concept R26 to do so. The race-ready R26 is yet to be seen, with new rules producing smaller cars by all measures, less downforce but active aerodynamics, and more focus on the electric motor’s output.
The switch in rules enticed Audi to buy Swiss team Sauber Motorsport in 2024, quickly opening a UK Technology Centre at Bicester Motion and focusing its engine building at Audi’s Neuburg facility to begin its journey to the front of the grid. It did so under the experienced stewardship of Mattia Binotto and Jonathan Wheatley.
"We have spent the last few years meticulously building not just a power unit in Neuburg but laying the foundations for a technical organisation that binds our chassis development in Hinwil and Bicester,” added former Ferrari boss Binotto. “This seamless integration gives us total control over our destiny, eliminating compromises and enabling a level of agility and innovation that is essential for success. This is what makes Audi Revolut F1 Team one vision, controlling every variable from the engine block to the front wing. This is the foundation upon which championships are built."
Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto will drive the car during 2026 and get their first outing on track with other cars at the opening behind-closed-doors test between Monday 26 to Friday 30 January at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Teams can run for a maximum of three of the five days as they get to grips with the new regulations.
The season gets underway in Melbourne, Australia, on 6 March.
