Audi Enter Formula 1 with Striking R26 Reveal

Audi have officially unveiled their first-ever Formula 1 car, marking the milestone with a spectacular launch event at Berlin’s iconic Kraftwerk power station.

The German manufacturer, which announced its intention to enter Formula 1 in August 2022, will make its Grand Prix debut in Australia. The car will be powered by Audi’s own inaugural Formula 1 power unit, underlining its commitment as a full works entrant.

To celebrate its arrival on the sport’s biggest stage, Audi hosted an ambitious launch in the heart of the German capital. Audi CEO Gernot Döllner was joined by Head of the Audi F1 Project Mattia Binotto, Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley, and drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, who raced together last season.

Audi, renowned for its success across multiple motorsport disciplines revealed the R26, featuring a striking titanium, carbon fibre, and lava red livery that was first teased at a Munich event last November.

Despite their ambitious goals, Audi are acutely aware of the scale of the challenge ahead in Formula 1.

“Today marks more than a launch; it is the public declaration of a new era for Audi,” said Döllner. “Formula 1 is the most demanding arena in motorsport, and we are here not merely to compete, but to shape the future of Vorsprung durch Technik.

“This project is a catalyst for our entire company and a symbol of our transformation toward a more performance-driven, efficient, and innovative culture. Our commitment is absolute and long-term.

“We understand that success in Formula 1 requires relentless perseverance. Audi Revolut F1 Team is not here to make up the numbers, we are targeting World Championship contention by 2030.”

Earlier this month, Audi became the first team to run a 2026-spec car during a filming day in Barcelona. Following the Berlin launch, the team will return to the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for Shakedown Week, where all 11 Formula 1 teams will be permitted three days of running.

Mattia Binotto highlighted the strategic advantage of Audi’s full works approach.

“Our decision to enter Formula 1 as a complete works team is our greatest strength,” Binotto said. “Over the past few years, we have not only developed our power unit in Neuburg, but also built the foundations of a unified technical organisation, connecting our chassis operations in Hinwil and Bicester.

“This integration gives us full control of our development path, removing compromises and allowing the agility and innovation required to succeed. From the engine block to the front wing, Audi Revolut F1 Team operates under a single vision, this is how championships are built.”

Jonathan Wheatley, who joined the Hinwil-based squad after nearly two decades at Red Bull, echoed those sentiments.

“This car represents thousands of hours of work by an incredibly talented group of people across our facilities,” Wheatley said. “We begin this journey with immense pride, but also with humility. This is only day one of a long campaign.

“Our objective is to embed a championship mentality into every aspect of the team, built on resilience, precision, and relentless curiosity. We are committed to getting stronger with every lap, every debrief, and every race.”

Veteran Nico Hülkenberg will once again partner Gabriel Bortoleto, continuing a pairing that showed promise last season. Hülkenberg secured his maiden Formula 1 podium, while Bortoleto recorded five points finishes during an impressive rookie campaign.

“After many years in the paddock, you learn to tell the difference between ambition and real capability,” said Hülkenberg. “What I sense here is a deep seriousness of purpose and an energy that truly stands out.

“We are a genuine works team with a clear long-term vision, backed by significant resources and world-class expertise. Being part of Audi’s journey from the very beginning is incredibly exciting, and I can’t wait to take this car to the track in Melbourne.”

Bortoleto added:

“Racing for the Four Rings, one of the most iconic brands in motorsport, is a dream come true. You grow up hearing about Audi’s dominance at Le Mans and in rallying, and to now represent that legacy in Formula 1 is an unbelievable honour.

“I feel the responsibility, but even more so the motivation to learn, push, and grow alongside this team. I am ready to give everything I have to help write this next chapter for Audi Revolut F1 Team.”

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