Overview
- Audi unveiled the R26 Concept in Munich as the first look at its 2026 car and brand identity for its F1 program.
- Veteran Nico Hülkenberg and Brazilian rookie Gabriel Bortoleto are confirmed to drive for the team’s debut season.
- Mattia Binotto leads operations and technology with Jonathan Wheatley in a senior role, as Audi consolidates Sauber and secures backing from Qatar’s sovereign fund.
- The program’s timeline includes a team presentation in January 2026, closed-track running in Barcelona that month, official Bahrain tests on February 11–13 and 18–20, and a race debut in Melbourne on March 6–8.
- The 2026 rules bring active aerodynamics and a much stronger hybrid system—MGU-K output up to about 350 kW with reduced V6 power—shaping Audi’s Neuburg-built power unit and Hinwil-developed chassis.