Overview
- Audi’s R26 Concept previews its first F1 livery in titanium, carbon black and Audi red, featuring red four‑ring logos as part of a unified brand design.
- A full works entry follows the takeover of Sauber, with operations split across Neuburg (power unit), Hinwil (chassis and race team) and a technology office in Bicester.
- The in‑house 1.6‑litre V6 hybrid power unit has completed a simulated full‑race bench test and will run on sustainable fuels in partnership with BP under the 2026 rules.
- Mattia Binotto leads the F1 project with Jonathan Wheatley as team principal, while Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto are confirmed for the 2026 driver lineup.
- Audi plans a full car reveal in January, private running in Barcelona, public testing in Bahrain in February and a competitive debut at the Australian Grand Prix in March 2026.