Audi has unveiled the R26 Concept, a preview of its 2026 Formula 1 car, marking a significant step towards its F1 debut. The concept car features a sharp, futuristic design with a titanium, carbon black, and Audi Red color scheme, reflecting the brand’s evolving design language. The R26 Concept is not the final car, but it gives a strong indication of what to expect when Audi joins the F1 grid in 2026. The car will wear sponsorship decals from partners such as Revolut, BP, and Adidas, and will be powered by an engine and hybrid system developed by Audi.
Audi’s entry into F1 is the result of a two-and-a-half-year effort, which began with the establishment of its F1 division, Audi Formula Racing (AFR), in 2022. The company partnered with the Swiss-based Sauber team and later acquired it in March 2024, ensuring full control of its F1 operations. Audi is building its own car and power unit, mirroring the approach of legendary manufacturers like Ferrari and Mercedes. The engines and hybrid systems are being developed at Audi’s motorsport headquarters in Neuberg, Germany, while the race cars will be assembled and operated from Sauber’s base in Hinwil, Switzerland.
The team is led by experienced figures from the F1 world, including former Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto and Jonathan Wheatley, previously of Red Bull Racing. Audi has also been expanding its team, hiring over 150 new employees in 2025 alone. The driver lineup will feature a blend of experience and youth, with Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto set to drive the new car during the pre-season test in Barcelona in early 2026.
Audi’s F1 program builds on its experience in hybrid technology from endurance racing, Formula E, and the Dakar Rally. The brand believes this foundation will help it take advantage of F1’s new 2026 regulations, which emphasize hybrid technology and sustainable fuels. Audi has been developing new synthetic fuel solutions with partner BP since 2022. The company is committed to winning and aims to fight for the World Championship title by 2030. According to CEO Gernot Döllner, “We are not entering Formula 1 just to be there, we want to win.”