Audi has officially revealed the livery that will represent the brand in its first-ever Formula 1 season, marking a major milestone in the marque’s motorsport journey. The unveiling took place at the iconic Kraftwerk Berlin, where Audi showcased a show-spec R26 designed to highlight the team’s visual identity rather than its final aerodynamic package.
Although the car on display was not the definitive race-spec machine, Audi has already completed an early shakedown of the R26. Clearer images and technical details are expected once official pre-season testing begins.
Audi R26: Livery Inspired by Performance and Heritage
The Audi R26 features a striking design that blends the brand’s signature Titanium finish with exposed carbon fibre surfaces and bold Lava Red accents. This colour combination was first hinted at with the R26 concept revealed last year and reflects Audi’s performance-focused design philosophy.
The livery balances aggression and sophistication, underlining Audi’s intent to make a strong visual and technical statement as it enters the pinnacle of motorsport.
A Full Works Team From Day One
Audi’s entry into Formula 1 comes through the takeover of Sauber’s operations, but with a crucial difference: Audi will compete as a full works team from the outset. This means the R26 will be powered by an in-house developed power unit, built at Audi’s Neuburg facility.
With the 2026 regulations introducing all-new powertrains — featuring an almost 50:50 split between internal combustion and electric power, active aerodynamics, and sustainable fuel blends — Audi believes its integrated approach will be a key competitive advantage.
Mattia Binotto, Head of the Audi F1 Project, highlighted that Audi’s tightly connected chassis development centres in Hinwil and Bicester, combined with its power unit programme, give the team complete technical control and long-term flexibility.
Drivers Confirmed for Audi’s First F1 Season
Audi will retain last year’s Sauber driver lineup for its debut campaign. Experienced German racer Nico Hülkenberg will partner rising talent Gabriel Bortoleto, providing a blend of experience and youth as the team begins its F1 journey.
Long-Term Vision: F1 Championship by 2030
Audi has already set an ambitious goal of fighting for the Formula 1 world championship by 2030. While the team acknowledges the steep learning curve ahead, the initial focus will be on building strong processes, reliability, and consistent points finishes.
Team principal Jonathan Wheatley emphasised the importance of developing a championship mindset from day one, stating that continuous improvement across every race weekend will be central to Audi’s long-term success.
Testing Schedule and Season Opener
Audi’s pre-season preparations begin with a five-day private testing session at Barcelona starting January 26. This will be followed by two official test sessions in Bahrain during February. The 2026 Formula 1 season will officially kick off with the Australian Grand Prix, scheduled for March 6–8.
With a bold vision, striking new livery, and a fully integrated works-team approach, Audi’s arrival in Formula 1 promises to be one of the most closely watched debuts in recent motorsport history.
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