F1: Gabriel Bortoleto exalts the design of the Audi RS 26 for F1 2026 and projects a promising debut
Gabriel Bortoleto, Brazilian driver, participated in the official launch of the Audi car for the 2026 Formula 1 season, held in Munich, Germany, this Wednesday. The model, called Audi RS 26, was presented at an event that marked the brand’s entry onto the grid as a factory team. Bortoleto highlighted the vehicle’s design and Audi’s historical relevance in motorsport.
The presentation took place at the company’s headquarters, where the Brazilian emphasized his excitement. He arrives in the category after a transition from Sauber, the current owner of the project. Initial tests of the car are scheduled for January, in Barcelona.
- The car has aerodynamic lines optimized for the new rules.
- Includes hybrid engine developed in-house by Audi.
- Represents the only newcomer to manufacture its own power unit.
R26 color concept. Classic Audi ❤️🩶🖤 #F1 pic.twitter.com/FtPLFyLAWv
— Audi F1 Racing Team (@audi_f1stars) November 13, 2025
Presentation in Munich
The event brought together managers and the pilot in a controlled environment. Bortoleto arrived at the scene in a Dakar Rally-winning vehicle. Audi reinforced its slogan “Vorsprung durchTechnik” during the ceremony.
Mattia Binotto, project leader, explained the regulatory changes. He compared the challenge to that of 2014, but with changes to the chassis and engines.
Engine Development
The power unit is built in Neuburg, Germany. The chassis remains in Hinwil, Switzerland, maintaining Sauber operations. Audi will be one of the few teams outside the UK to produce the complete car.
Binotto mentioned that Cadillac will use Ferrari engines until 2027. He emphasized the complexity of the hybrid and the need to manage initial expectations.
Simulator tests indicate difficulties in power management. Electrical power increases significantly. Batteries store more braking energy. Maximum speeds can reach 400 km/h.
Regulatory challenges
The 2026 rules introduce sustainable fuel. Aerodynamic changes can reduce cornering speeds. Lap times should be higher than in 2025.
Binotto highlighted learning from Sauber in 2025. He stated that the team has the resources and competence to evolve. Engine development requires time and continuous effort.
Predicted tests
A shakedown could occur before the collectives in Barcelona. The FIA allows limited filming for the 2026 model. All 11 teams take part in January testing.
The season starts on March 8, with the Australian GP. Audi enters as the 11th team on the expanded grid.
Team Structure
Binotto and Jonathan Wheatley lead the project. The transition transforms Sauber into a factory operation. The focus is on building a solid foundation for future competitions.
Bortoleto reinforced the pride in representing the brand. He cited achievements such as Le Mans and WEC. The driver waits for initial accelerations in the car.
The project combines expertise in multiple categories. Audi invests in dedicated facilities. The RS 26 incorporates advanced hybrid technologies. The team aims for gradual competitiveness on the grid.
