Audi set to unveil 2026 F1 livery and identity in Berlin
Audi is ready to show off its 2026 Formula 1 livery during a live event in Berlin. The German manufacturer will replace Sauber's colors with a new red-black-titanium look as they prepare for their official entry into the sport.
Audi is finally pulling the covers off its 2026 Formula 1 identity tonight in Berlin. After completing its acquisition of the Sauber stake, the German manufacturer is set to debut a new livery that moves away from the team's traditional green and black colors, signaling its official arrival as a factory works team on the grid.
Why it matters:
Audi's entry marks a significant shift in the Formula 1 landscape, bringing the total number of manufacturers to six. As the German giant prepares to go head-to-head with Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda, establishing a strong brand identity is the first critical step in their long-term championship ambitions.
The details:
- The Reveal: The launch event takes place in Berlin this evening, kicking off at 7pm CET. The livestream will be available globally on Audi's official F1 platform.
- New Look: The team is expected to ditch the Stake branding's neon green for a sophisticated red, black, and titanium color scheme. This aligns with the concept images teased by the team late last year, reflecting Audi's corporate identity.
- Team Structure: The organization has retained key personnel to ensure stability. Jonathan Wheatley remains as Team Principal, while former Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto continues as the COO and Project Head overseeing the 2026 project.
- Driver Lineup: The driver pairing for the debut season remains Nico Hulkenberg, bringing valuable experience, alongside rookie Gabriel Bortoleto.
- Track Action: While the new car has already completed a private shakedown at Barcelona, the actual aerodynamic design and technical specifications remain under wraps. Tonight's presentation focuses on the livery rather than a full technical reveal.
What's next:
With the brand identity now public, the focus shifts entirely to on-track performance. The real test for Audi will be pre-season testing, where we will see if their power unit and chassis integration can challenge the established frontrunners immediately or if 2026 will serve as a foundation for future dominance.