German manufacturer Audi revealed its first-ever Formula One single-seater, marking a major milestone ahead of its debut season following the acquisition of the Sauber team. The car, named the Audi R26, signals the brand’s long-term ambition to compete at the highest level, with officials declaring a clear goal of winning championships by 2030.
The newly unveiled livery features a predominantly grey colour scheme, complemented by red Audi rings displayed prominently on the rear wing. According to the team, the design aims to be among the most elegant and visually striking on the grid, while reflecting Audi’s identity and engineering philosophy.
Leadership outlines vision and long-term strategy
Meanwhile, Audi confirmed that last season’s Sauber drivers, Nico Huelkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, will continue with the team in 2026 following the rebranding. Their retention is expected to provide continuity as the manufacturer builds its Formula One programme from the ground up.
Project chief Mattia Binotto said the revised 2026 Formula One regulations created the ideal opportunity for Audi to enter the sport. He stressed that the new rules align with the company’s technical strengths and long-term vision.
Team principal Jonathan Wheatley described the Audi R26 as the result of thousands of hours of work across multiple facilities. He said the team begins its journey with pride but also humility, emphasizing that success will require patience, resilience, and constant learning.
Furthermore, Wheatley highlighted the importance of building a culture focused on precision and relentless performance gains. He added that the team aims to grow stronger with every lap, debrief, and race.
Like the other Formula One teams, Audi will debut the R26 on track next week during closed-door testing at the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit.
