Audi Unveils 2026 F1 Concept, Red Bull Promotes Junior Driver for F2 Finale

Audi has officially revealed its 2026 F1 concept car, giving an initial glimpse into its future design language as the brand prepares to enter Formula 1. Simultaneously, Red Bull junior driver Nikola Tsolov will step up to compete in the final two rounds of the 2025 Formula 2 season.

Why it matters:

Audi's concept reveal signals a concrete step in their ambitious F1 entry, aiming to become a championship contender by 2030. This move will add a significant new manufacturer to the grid, intensifying competition. Meanwhile, Red Bull's promotion of Tsolov highlights their ongoing commitment to nurturing talent within their junior program, providing crucial experience for a driver expected to feature prominently in F2 next year.

The Details:

• Audi's 2026 Vision: The German manufacturer showcased its first 2026 F1 concept car, featuring its classic color scheme. This reveal offers a preliminary look at the aesthetic direction for their cars under the new regulations, though specific design details remain under wraps.
• Strategic Leadership: This event marks a key milestone in the transition process that will see Sauber rebranded as Audi. The project is being spearheaded by Mattia Binotto and Jonathan Wheatley, indicating a serious commitment to building a competitive team.
• Ambitious Goals: Audi CEO Gernot Döllner emphasized the brand's clear objective: "We want to win. By 2030, we want to fight for the World Championship title." This sets a high bar for their F1 tenure.
• Red Bull's Driver Move: Red Bull junior Nikola Tsolov is confirmed to race in the final two rounds of the 2025 Formula 2 season.
  • He will replace Pepe Martím, who has transitioned to the Cupra Kiro Formula E team.
  • Tsolov's early promotion provides valuable track time ahead of his full-season F2 debut with Campos Racing next year, where he will race alongside Arvid Lindblad.

The big picture:

Audi's entry injects fresh blood and significant investment into Formula 1, promising a shake-up in the competitive order by 2026. Their long-term championship aspirations suggest a patient but determined approach. Concurrently, Red Bull continues to demonstrate its effective talent pipeline, ensuring a steady stream of promising drivers through its feeder series. These developments collectively point to an evolving F1 landscape, both in terms of manufacturer presence and driver talent.

What's next:

Audi's preparations will intensify as the 2026 regulations approach, with further details on their power unit and chassis development expected. For Tsolov, these final F2 races offer a critical proving ground to prepare for his full 2026 campaign, potentially catching the eye of senior Red Bull management.