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Audi has officially unveiled its new Formula 1 car, the R26, during a filming session at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. This event marks a significant milestone for the team as it transitions from the former Kick Sauber to a full-fledged Audi works team for the upcoming season.
The track run occurred in Montmelo, where drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto had the opportunity to test the car’s performance. This successful outing is part of Audi’s preparations for their debut in one of the most prestigious motorsport series globally.
Significant milestones and upcoming events
On January 7, Audi marked a significant milestone by successfully completing the first fire-up of the R26, which signifies the initial activation of the car’s power unit within the chassis. This event occurred at their facility in Hinwil and showcased the effective collaboration between their powertrain division in Neuburg, Germany, and the chassis team in Switzerland. This integration highlights Audi’s commitment to excellence as they embark on this new chapter.
Looking forward, the newly formed Audi Revolut F1 Team will host an official launch event in Berlin on January 20. This event will unveil the complete race livery of the R26, offering fans a preview of the car’s aesthetic design. The excitement continues the next day, as fans will have the opportunity to attend a public opening, fostering an engaging atmosphere around this momentous event.
Preparations for pre-season testing
In anticipation of the upcoming season, Audi will engage in several pre-season testing sessions. The team is scheduled to join the other ten teams at a private test at the Barcelona circuit from January 26 to January 30. This will be followed by two more testing sessions in Bahrain on February 11-13 and February 18-20. These pre-season tests are crucial for teams to optimize their cars and gather essential data before the competitive season commences.
The impact of new regulations
The 2026 season will introduce a series of new technical regulations that are set to transform the landscape of Formula 1. Audi’s entry into this evolving environment underscores their commitment to innovation and adaptability. Gernot Dollner, the CEO of AUDI AG and Chairman of the Board of Audi Motorsport AG, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, “For Audi, entering Formula 1 is a key part of our brand’s ongoing renewal. This milestone is a clear demonstration of our Vorsprung durch Technik ambition.” This focus on innovation is anticipated to have a ripple effect throughout the organization.
Team spirit and future aspirations
Mattia Binotto, head of the Audi F1 Project, emphasized the significance of the fire-up moment, describing it as a new beginning for the team. He stated, “Seeing everything come together for the first time gives the entire project incredible energy.” This sentiment is shared by Jonathan Wheatley, team principal of the Audi Revolut F1 Team, who noted that this achievement energizes the team as they prepare for upcoming challenges, including their first race in Melbourne. The collaborative effort across all departments has established a strong foundation for future successes.
Audi’s debut of the R26 not only marks a significant milestone for the team but also highlights their ambitious entry into the competitive landscape of Formula 1. With a well-defined strategy and effective teamwork, Audi is positioned to make a notable impact in the 2026 season and beyond.