Audi reveals R26 concept for F1 2026 with Bortoleto and Hulkenberg in silver, black and red colors
Audi revealed this Wednesday, November 12, 2025, the concept of the R26 car for the 2026 Formula 1 season, during an event in Munich, Germany. Brazilian Gabriel Bortoleto, who debuts in the category with Sauber this year, will form a pair with German Nico Hulkenberg in the automaker’s new factory team. The presentation marks the official start of the transition from Sauber to Audi, with a focus on the hybrid and sustainable regulations that come into force next year.
The visual identity replaces Sauber’s green with tones of titanium silver, carbon black and the brand’s characteristic red. Officials highlight that the design reflects Audi’s historic achievements in championships such as WEC and WRC. The event brought together engineers, mechanics and partners, emphasizing the collective effort for development.
Bortoleto expressed satisfaction upon learning about the concept. He mentioned his idol Ayrton Senna and Audi’s connection with Brazil. The automaker plans initial tests in early 2026.
The schedule includes chassis and engine integration in December 2025. The season opens on March 8 in Melbourne.
The Audi R26. 🖤✨#F1 #AudiF1Team #AudiF1Project pic.twitter.com/oeZkMlF0QT
— Inside Audi F1 (@InsideAudiF1) November 12, 2025
R26 visual identity
The R26’s color palette incorporates iconic Audi elements. Silver represents tradition in endurance racing.
The carbon black alludes to the lightweight structure of the single-seater. Red adds contrast for visibility on the track.
The brand’s four rings appear prominently on the nose of the car. The concept avoids spoilers about final aerodynamics.
Team technical preparations
Engineers work in Hinwil, Switzerland, on the chassis. Engine production takes place in Neuburg, Germany.
A technology center in Bicester, UK, supports development. The integration aims to comply with 2026 rules.
The regulation increases electrification to 50% of power. 100% sustainable fuels will be mandatory.
Private tests in Barcelona begin in January. Official sessions continue in February, in Bahrain.
- Initial reliability as a priority for the hybrid engine.
- Simulations with pilots already underway.
- Partnership with suppliers for lightweight components.
- Focus on reducing shared costs in the category.
Declarations ofBortoleto and Hulkenberg
Gabriel Bortoleto described the opportunity as a personal achievement. He highlighted the three-year commitment to the project.
The Brazilian driver praised the construction of the team from scratch. Bortoleto sees potential for collective victories.
Nico Hulkenberg valued the mix of experience and youth. The German cited his podium at Silverstone as a positive basis.
Both participated in simulator sessions. The training sessions aim to adapt to the new car.
The duo signed multi-year contracts. Renewal depends on performance.
Leadership under Mattia Binotto
Mattia Binotto, former director of Ferrari, has headed the project since August 2024. He coordinates technical and track operations.
Binotto emphasizes learning from initial mistakes. The focus is on gradual progress until 2030.
Jonathan Wheatley, formerly of Red Bull, serves as team principal. He manages the day to day life in Hinwil.
The structure reports to CEO Gernot Dollner. Investments include a contribution from Qatar of 350 million dollars.
Binotto plans to unify dispersed teams. Frequent visits to factories ensure alignment.
Binotto’s history includes titles at Ferrari. Wheatley brought innovation from winning teams.
2026 Regulations and Innovations
The cars of 2026 will be smaller and lighter. Active aerodynamics reduces downforce by 30%.
Hybrid power units increase electrical efficiency. Engines promise a balance between performance and sustainability.
Formula 1 attracts new manufacturers with controlled costs. Audi opted for its own engine, unlike partnerships.
The grid expands to 11 teams with Cadillac. Calendar maintains 24 steps.
- 50% increase in electrical energy.
- Pirelli tires adapted to sustainable compounds.
- Improved regenerative braking systems.
- Reduction in fuel consumption by 75%.
Sauber’s current base and transition
Sauber is second in the constructors’ championship with 62 points. Recent results include jump to sixth after Hulkenberg’s podium.
Bortoleto faced challenges in the Brazilian GP. Accidents in the sprint and race served as a lesson.
The team improved in 2025 with new drivers. Regular points put the team in the middle of the pack.
The full acquisition by Audi took place in 2025. The complete rebranding takes effect in January 2026.
Investments increase the budget. Global partnerships support logistics.
The transition preserves headquarters in Hinwil. Geographic changes minimize disruptions.
