Audi’s F1 journey begins in Berlin with the launch of the new R26 car and official livery

Audi Revolut F1 The launch event, held at Berlim, at Alemanha, brought together the top brass of the automaker and the team, including the CEO of Audi,

The presentation revealed a design that seeks to balance the Audi’s motorsport heritage with a futuristic vision. The R26’s livery combines the traditional Audi Sport colors — red, gray and white — with dynamic graphic elements that reflect the strategic partnership with global fintech Revolut, the team’s main sponsor. The choice of Berlim for the launch event was not by chance, reinforcing the project’s German roots and the importance of the European market for the brand.

During the ceremony, executives detailed the team’s strategy and objectives for the coming years. Foi emphasized that the project is a long-term commitment, with a structured plan to build a solid foundation of technical and operational development. The initial goal is to establish the team as a consistent contender in the midfield, with the ultimate goal of fighting for wins and championships in the future.

The Audi’s entry into the top motorsport category is directly linked to the new engine regulations that will come into force in 2026. The rules promote a significant increase in electrification and the use of 100% synthetic and sustainable fuels, perfectly aligning with the German automaker’s mobility strategy and its focus on cutting-edge technologies.

The team’s complex operational structure

To compete at the highest level, Audi F1 Team adopted an operational model with two strategic bases, optimizing the expertise of its facilities. The headquarters in Hinwil, in Suíça, heritage of the structure of Sauber, has been extensively modernized and will be the nerve center for the development of the chassis, design, aerodynamics and track operations. Esta unit has one of the most advanced wind tunnels in the Fórmula 1 and a team of engineers with decades of experience in the category.

In parallel, the Audi Sport facility at Neuburg, at Alemanha, was designated as the power unit development center. Centenas of technicians and engineers are focused exclusively on creating the hybrid engine that will power the R26. Este engine includes an internal combustion engine, energy recovery systems (MGU-K) and high-performance batteries, representing one of the project’s biggest technological challenges. Efficient integration between the Hinwil and Neuburg teams is considered crucial to the success of the program.

A pair of pilots that combine experience and youth

Audi is committed to pilot training that balances vast experience with the promising talent of the new generation. The German Nico Hülkenberg, with more than 200 Grandes Prêmios in his career, was confirmed as one of the starters. Sua consistency, speed and deep technical knowledge are seen as valuable assets to guide the car’s initial development and extract maximum performance on the track from the start.

At his side will be the young Brazilian Gabriel Bortoleto, champion of the Fórmula 2 and one of the biggest promises in current motorsport. Aos 20 years old, Bortoleto represents the team’s commitment to the future, bringing energy and a natural talent that impressed in the youth categories. The combination of Hülkenberg and Bortoleto creates a powerful dynamic, where the veteran’s experience can accelerate the young driver’s adaptation and growth, while Bortoleto’s ambition will drive the team to reach new heights.

The development timeline until premiere

The Audi design for the Fórmula 1 was officially announced in August 2022, and since then, the team has followed a strict development schedule. The gradual acquisition of Sauber Motorsport allowed for a smooth transition, with the team competing as Stake F1

The German power unit has already undergone its first fire-up tests on the dynamometers at Neuburg, an important milestone that validated the integration of the engine’s main components. The next few months will be dedicated to intensive durability and performance tests, both in simulations and on track tests authorized by the regulations.

Chassis development on Hinwil is also progressing apace, with engineers working to interpret the new 2026 aerodynamic rules and create a competitive package. The team plans to carry out a shakedown of the R26 in late 2025, followed by full participation in 2026 pre-season testing, ensuring the car and team are fully prepared for the first Grande Prêmio of the season.

Details of the new visual identity

The visual identity revealed in Berlim goes beyond the car’s paintwork. Ela covers all aspects of the team, from the uniforms of the drivers and pit crew to the design of the motorhomes and digital communications. The color palette, dominated by Audi Sport’s vibrant red and shades of gray and black, creates a strong and instantly recognizable image.

The Audi Revolut F1 Team logo was designed to convey modernity and dynamism. The integration of the Revolut brand was carried out prominently, but harmoniously, highlighting the importance of the commercial partnership for the financial sustainability of the project. The design seeks to attract a new generation of fans to the Fórmula 1, connecting the automotive tradition of the Audi with the digital and innovative universe of the Revolut.

Expectations for the debut season

The Audi board maintains a stance of pragmatic realism regarding the debut season in 2026. The main objective for the first year is to build a solid foundation, focusing on the reliability of the car and power unit. The team understands that fighting for podiums from the start is an immense challenge, given the complexity of the Fórmula 1 and the high level of established competitors.

The initial goal is to consistently compete in the midfield, accumulating points and valuable learnings in each race. Development throughout the season will be a key indicator of the team’s progress. With an experienced leadership structure, a talented driver duo and the backing of one of the world’s largest car manufacturers, Audi F1 Team has all the ingredients to become a force to be reckoned with in Fórmula 1 for years to come.

The leadership structure and its challenges

Project management is in the hands of experienced and respected figures in the Fórmula 1 paddock. Jonathan Wheatley, ex-Red Bull Racing, takes over as Chefe from Sua main responsibility will be to ensure that the team operates at maximum efficiency on the track.

Mattia Binotto, with his long history at Ferrari, holds the positions of Diretor, Operações (COO) and Ele will oversee all technical development, both of the chassis in Hinwil and the power unit in Neuburg. Binotto’s biggest challenge will be to ensure perfect synergy between the two factories, eliminating redundancies and accelerating the development process to create a competitive and integrated racing car.