The R26 concept is one of the first embodiments of the brand's new visual identity. Minimalist graphic surfaces defined by precise lines harmoniously blend with the geometry of the racing car. The color palette includes titanium, carbon black, and red. Within this identity, Audi also uses red rings.
Massimo Frascella, Audi's Chief Creative Officer, stated that the R26 reveals the signature style not only of the Audi F1 team but also of the entire brand. So, in the near future, some design elements will appear in the brand's production cars.
Audi has been developing a power unit for Formula 1 since spring 2022. It consists of a 1.6-liter V6 turbo engine, an energy recovery system (ERS) including an energy storage (ES) and motor-generator unit (MGU-K), as well as a control unit (CU-K). In addition to the power unit, a gearbox is being developed in Neuburg (Germany).
The new technical regulations for Formula 1 power units aim for greater compatibility with road vehicles with a new hybrid concept. The electric motor's power has been tripled and will be comparable to the internal combustion engine, which from 2026 will operate on sustainable fuel. Since 2022, Audi has been working exclusively in this area with British company BP.
The team develops and assembles racing cars at the Formula 1 factory in Hinwil. The Swiss division is also responsible for planning and conducting racing events. Additionally, since summer 2025, there is a technology office operating in Bicester (UK).
The future Audi F1 team is supported by three global corporations: Adidas, BP, and Revolut. The latter will become the title partner. To participate in Formula 1, Audi fully acquired the Swiss Sauber Group at the beginning of this year, thereby creating the conditions for attracting investment from Qatar's sovereign fund.
The Audi F1 project is led by two experienced Formula 1 managers, former Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto and Jonathan Wheatley, who report directly to Audi CEO Gernot Döllner. The team also includes experienced German driver Nico Hülkenberg and young talent Gabriel Bortoleto from Brazil.
The future Audi F1 team will debut at an official presentation in January 2026. Shortly after that, at the end of January, the first official test drives of the new generation Formula 1 cars will be held behind closed doors in Barcelona (Spain). During the subsequent tests in Bahrain (February 11-13 and 18-20), the Audi factory team will conduct its first public tests in Formula 1. The brand's debut at the pinnacle of motorsport will take place in Melbourne (Australia) from March 6 to 8.
Source: Audi