Audi Teases Next Major F1 Milestone After R26 Concept Car Unveil
Audi is ramping up for its 2026 Formula 1 entry, teasing the imminent 'first fire-up' of its engine after revealing the R26 concept car's livery. Led by Mattia Binotto and Jonathan Wheatley, the team aims for championship contention by 2030, leveraging new regulations and a focus on sustainable technology. This marks a crucial step in Audi's ambitious journey to become a dual chassis and engine manufacturer in F1.
Anticipation for Audi's entry into Formula 1 continues to grow following the reveal of their R26 concept car, which offers a glimpse of their 2026 livery. Audi F1 project chief Mattia Binotto has confirmed that the first engine fire-up of their debut car is imminent, marking a significant step towards their 2026 F1 debut as both a chassis and engine manufacturer.
Why it matters:
Audi's full commitment to F1, entering as both a power unit and chassis manufacturer, signals a major shift in the sport's competitive landscape. Their ambitious goal to contend for championships by 2030, coupled with significant regulation changes in 2026, could shake up the established order and introduce a formidable new force.
The Details:
- 2026 Regulations Overhaul: The 2026 season will introduce smaller, 30kg lighter cars with active aerodynamics, replacing DRS. Power units will see a threefold increase in electrical output and will run on fully sustainable biofuels.
- R26 Concept Car: Audi unveiled its R26 concept car, showcasing the future design philosophy and livery for their 2026 challenger. This marks a visual step in their F1 journey.
- Leadership and Team Building: Under the leadership of Mattia Binotto and new Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley (formerly from Red Bull), the team is laying solid foundations. Sauber, which Audi will acquire, has shown improvement, scoring 62 points in the current F1 2025 season.
- Ambitious Targets: Audi CEO Gernot Döllner stated a goal to "fight for the World Championship title" by 2030, a sentiment echoed by Binotto.
- Upcoming Milestones: The next major step is the 'first fire-up' of their F1 engine, with the first full car track debut planned for early next year. Binotto describes this as not just machinery coming to life, but "the passion and ambition of hundreds becoming reality."
- Driver Line-up: Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto are confirmed to remain with the team through the Sauber-to-Audi transition.
Between the lines:
Jonathan Wheatley emphasized the importance of a strong team culture built on belief, resilience, and continuous improvement. He highlighted that championship-winning teams are not built by magic, but by people who believe in each other and the process, indicating a focused and determined approach to team development beyond just technical innovation.
What's next:
The imminent engine fire-up will be a critical 'milestone' for Audi, bringing their ambitious F1 project closer to reality. The subsequent track debut of their first F1 car early next year will further intensify the excitement, signaling the tangible beginning of Audi's bid to reshape the pinnacle of motorsport.