On Wednesday, Audi shared the first images of its future F1 car – or more accurately, the livery with which the German racing team aims to appear on the grid in 2026. In the run-up to the full takeover of the current Sauber team, an official presentation took place in Munich. It was revealed that the new car, tentatively referred to as the ‘R26 Concept’, will be executed in a modern interpretation of the classic Audi sports colors.
The first impressions show a silver-colored chassis with carbon accents and neon red details. According to Audi, the design reflects the brand’s ‘new visual identity’. The R26 Concept is, of course, still lacking sponsor stickers. Furthermore, the design elements of the cars for 2026 stand out; a smaller footprint with renewed front and rear wings and a redesigned floor. Audi emphasizes that these renders are just ‘a taste’ of the final race car, which will be officially unveiled in January.
Audi Project
In a press statement, Audi CEO Gernot Döllner emphasized that the future Formula 1 racing team forms a spearhead of the renewed brand identity. “By entering the pinnacle of motorsport, Audi is making an ambitious and clear statement,” he declared. “It is the next chapter in the renewal of our company. Formula 1 will serve as a catalyst for the transition to a faster and more innovative Audi.” Döllner also shared the team’s high ambitions. “We are not just entering Formula 1 – we are participating to win. At the same time, we know that it takes time and a lot of perseverance. Our goal is to compete for the world title by 2030,” said the CEO.”Earlier this year, Audi took over the Swiss Sauber. For the time being, the team is still operating as Stake F1 Team, but from 2026, with the support of the Qatari state investment fund, it will officially transform into an Audi factory team. This also means that the Germans will develop their own power unit. The project is led by Formula 1 veterans Mattia Binotto and Jonathan Wheatley. The driver lineup remains unchanged. Nico Hülkenberg, the German veteran, and Gabriel Bortoleto, Formula 2 champion and promising rookie, will stay on.
Top view of Audi’s new F1 livery”
