Audi Unveils Formula 1 Team in Berlin as 2026 Season Approaches

Audi presented its F1 team to the public on January 20 at Kraftwerk Berlin, unveiling the R26 race car livery and introducing drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. The event marks a significant step in Audi's preparation for its debut season in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship in 2026.

The R26 livery features a titanium finish with carbon fiber elements and red accents, displaying branding from title partner Revolut. The team also presented teamwear designed in partnership with adidas, which will be available for purchase starting February 19, 2026.

Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG and Chairman of Audi Motorsport AG, stated the team aims to compete for the World Championship by 2030. "We are here not just to compete, but to define the future of 'Vorsprung durch Technik,'" Döllner said at the launch.

The team operates from three locations: power unit development takes place at Audi Formula Racing GmbH in Neuburg, Germany; chassis engineering and race operations are based at Audi Motorsport AG in Hinwil, Switzerland; and the Audi Motorsport Technology Centre UK in Bicester provides access to Formula 1 talent and partners.

Mattia Binotto, Head of Audi F1 Project, emphasized the advantage of entering as a full works team. "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," Binotto said.

Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley described the car as the result of thousands of hours of work. "Our mission is to embed a championship DNA into every fibre of this team," Wheatley stated.

Audi announced its Formula 1 entry in August 2022, timed with new regulations scheduled for 2026. The company acquired the Sauber Group in early 2025 and has been developing its hybrid power unit since 2022.

The team conducted closed-door testing in Barcelona and will make its first public appearance at tests in Bahrain before the season opener in Melbourne. The event in Berlin opened to fans on January 21 through a ticket ballot system.