Audi’s long-awaited Formula 1 move took a major leap forward as the manufacturer showcased its 2026 livery and strategic roadmap at a spectacular launch event in Munich. Although Audi’s F1 intentions have been public for years, this presentation made the project feel truly underway.
The event highlighted the brand’s iconic motorsport legacy. CEO Gernot Dollner, Audi F1 Project Head Mattia Binotto, Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley, drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, and F1 President Stefano Domenicali arrived in some of Audi’s most historic racing machines. Their presence set the tone for a new era.
“This feels like a very significant moment on our journey,” says Wheatley. “To see all the cars – it’s like Audi have opened up the toy box and got all of the cars out here tonight.”
Audi’s success in rallying, endurance racing, and touring cars has shaped its identity. Now, the manufacturer views Formula 1 as the next major chapter. The team wants to climb to the front, even if the path will require time and patience.
Audi Sets an Ambitious Goal: A Championship Fight by 2030
With the rebranded Sauber team becoming a full Audi works operation, expectations are high. Binotto made their long-term objective clear.
“We are aiming to win a championship by 2030. That’s our ambition, our goal, our objective.”
This target reflects both confidence and urgency. Audi must transform a midfield outfit with only a single historic win into a front-running challenger capable of competing with Red Bull, Ferrari, Mercedes, and McLaren. Five years is not long in Formula 1, but Audi believes the timeline is achievable.
Wheatley says the board supports the multi-stage plan: “[The Audi board have given us a] very realistic set of targets.”
Major Investments Drive the 2026 Project Forward
Audi is committing significant resources to its Neuberg power unit facility, where the first Audi F1 2026 engine is already running on the dyno. The new hybrid regulations, which introduce active aero and greater electrical output, will reset the field in 2026 — and Audi wants to be ready.
Binotto understands the scale of the task.
“The power unit is a complex and difficult matter… On the dyno, we are running through reliability at the moment.”
Meanwhile, Audi is expanding the Hinwil factory to build its first complete Formula 1 chassis. The team expects steady progress rather than instant results.
Wheatley outlines the philosophy: “Our target really is to keep building on this momentum… that will make us championship challengers at the end of the decade.”
Audi Reveals the Striking R26 Concept Livery
The star of the evening was the R26 Concept car wearing Audi’s new Formula 1 colour scheme. The red, black, and titanium design emphasises clean lines and strong visual identity. Audi even studied broadcast footage to ensure maximum clarity on television screens.
“It’s about releasing something really unique,” Wheatley says. “If you look at an F1 car in five years, you’ll say that’s an Audi.”
The actual 2026 chassis remains behind closed doors, but work is progressing rapidly.
“It’s looking great as a car,” Binotto reveals. “Next year, when we are in Melbourne, it’ll be a special moment for all of us.”
Challenges Ahead, but Confidence Remains High
While Audi brings world-class engineering talent into Formula 1, Binotto stresses that every part of the project presents difficulty.
“I think the power unit challenge is difficult, but to become World Champion, to become the best car on track, all the challenges are tricky.”
Audi knows the road to success will involve setbacks, but the tone remains determined. The team wants to compete with the biggest names, and their early steps show strong commitment.
With significant investment, experienced leadership, and a clear timeline, Audi’s Formula 1 2026 entry is shaping up as one of the sport’s most compelling new stories.
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