Overview
- Audi confirmed the initial fire-up of its 2026 power unit installed in the chassis at Hinwil on December 19, the first time the unit has run in-car.
- Team principal Jonathan Wheatley called it a critical milestone that sharpens focus on preparations for the season opener in Melbourne.
- Project head Mattia Binotto described the moment as a new beginning, crediting coordinated efforts across Neuburg and Hinwil.
- Audi CEO Gernot Döllner framed the step as proof of the company’s technological ambition, with contributions also coming from the new Bicester technical center.
- Next steps include a team launch in Berlin on January 20 and private running in Barcelona later in January, with Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto slated to sample the R26.