Overview
- Audi confirmed its maiden 2026 power unit was fired up in the R26 chassis at Hinwil on December 19, a milestone the team says validates integration across Neuburg, Hinwil and Bicester.
- Multiple outlets report Audi will run a filming‑day shakedown at Barcelona on Friday, with Motorsport.com adding that Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto are expected to drive.
- Any promotional running will be capped at 200 km on Pirelli demonstration tyres, enabling functional checks before performance-focused testing.
- Audi plans a public launch in Berlin on January 20, followed by pre-season testing in Barcelona from January 26–30 and in Bahrain across two sessions in February.
- The works entry follows Audi’s takeover of Sauber and aligns with 2026 rules that increase the electric share, mandate sustainable fuel and introduce active aerodynamics, areas where Audi cites hybrid expertise.