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Audi has officially revealed its first Formula 1 car as part of a launch event at the historic Kraftwerk Berlin power station. The German manufacturer, which announced its F1 entry in August 2022, will debut at the Australian Grand Prix with a car powered by its first F1 Power Unit.
The Audi R26 features a titanium, carbon fiber, and lava red livery, first teased at a Munich event last November. The launch was attended by Audi CEO Gernot Dollner, Head of Audi F1 Project Mattia Binotto, Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley, and drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto.
“Today marks more than a launch; it marks the public declaration of a new era for Audi,” Dollner said. “Formula 1 is the most demanding stage in motorsport, and we aim not just to compete but to define the future of ‘Vorsprung durch Technik.’ Success in Formula 1 requires perseverance, and we plan to fight for the World Championship by 2030.”
Audi previously ran its 2026-spec car during a filming day in Barcelona. Following the Berlin launch, the team will return to Barcelona for Shakedown Week, allowing all 11 F1 teams to run for three days.
Binotto emphasized the benefits of entering as a full works team. “We have built not just a power unit in Neuburg but a technical organisation linking our chassis development in Hinwil and Bicester,” he said. “This seamless integration gives us control over our destiny and a foundation for long-term success.”
Wheatley added: “This car represents thousands of hours of work across multiple facilities. Today is the start of a long journey to embed championship DNA into every part of this team. Our focus is to grow stronger with each lap, debrief, and race.”
Drivers Hulkenberg and Bortoleto will continue as teammates for a second season. Hulkenberg, who earned his first podium last year, said: “This team has a profound seriousness and energy that sets it apart. It is exciting to build something from the start and take this car to Melbourne.”
Bortoleto, who scored five points finishes in his rookie year, described the opportunity as “a dream come true” and said he is “ready to give my absolute all to help write this great chapter for Audi Revolut F1 Team.”
