Audi Launches Historic Formula 1 Team Ahead of 2026 Debut
BERLIN, January 20, 2026 – The Audi Revolut F1 Team was officially unveiled tonight at a landmark event in the German capital, marking the storied manufacturer’s long-awaited entry into Formula 1. The team presented its 2026 race livery and visual identity, signaling the start of a new era as a full works operation following its complete takeover of the Sauber organization.
The Berlin Launch Event
The team launch took place at Kraftwerk Berlin, with a dedicated media session in the afternoon followed by the main evening presentation. Audi CEO Gernot Döllner, Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley, and Head of the Audi F1 Project Mattia Binotto presented the squad’s new identity to a global audience via a live stream on audif1.com. The event revealed the final livery for the R26 challenger, which will compete under the new 2026 technical regulations. The launch makes Audi the fourth team to reveal its 2026 colors, following Red Bull, Racing Bulls, and Haas.
The Audi Revolut F1 Team: Key Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Team Name | Audi Revolut F1 Team |
| Base | Hinwil, Switzerland (Chassis) Neuburg an der Donau, Germany (Power Unit) Bicester, UK (Technical Center) |
| Team Principal | Jonathan Wheatley |
| Head of F1 Project | Mattia Binotto |
| Technical Director | James Key |
| 2026 Drivers | Nico Hulkenberg (#27) and Gabriel Bortoleto (#5) |
| Power Unit | Audi (in-house) |
| First F1 Entry | 2026 |
Building on Sauber’s Foundation
Audi’s entry is built upon the acquisition of the Sauber team, which first entered Formula 1 in 1993. The German brand, part of the Volkswagen Group, announced its intention to join F1 as a power unit supplier in 2022, later deciding to become a full works team by taking over Sauber. The transition was completed in 2024, with the team operating as Kick Sauber for the 2025 season, where it finished ninth in the constructors’ championship with 70 points. The driver lineup of experienced German Nico Hulkenberg and promising Brazilian rookie Gabriel Bortoleto has been retained for the debut Audi campaign.
The 2026 Regulatory Revolution
Audi’s debut coincides with the most significant technical overhaul in over a decade. The 2026 regulations introduce smaller, lighter cars with a major shift towards electrification. The power unit split moves to a near 50/50 balance between internal combustion and electric power, and the complex MGU-H component has been removed. Cars will feature active aerodynamics with movable front and rear wings, replacing the DRS system. Furthermore, all cars must run on 100% sustainable fuels. These changes are designed to level the competitive field, improve racing, and align the sport with broader sustainability goals, making it an opportune moment for new manufacturers like Audi to enter.
Long-Term Ambition Meets Short-Term Reality
While Audi’s stated goal is to fight for championships by 2030, leadership has been realistic about expectations for the debut season. Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley has referred to 2026 as a “challenger year,” focused on building momentum and understanding the new car and power unit. The team aims to improve upon Sauber’s 2025 results and establish a solid foundation for future development. The combination of Hulkenberg’s vast experience—including a long-awaited first podium in 2025—and Bortoleto’s potential is seen as a key asset in this building phase.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2026 F1 season start?
The 2026 season is scheduled to begin with pre-season testing in Barcelona later in January, followed by the opening race. Audi will be one of 11 teams on the grid, alongside the new Cadillac entry.
What is Audi’s greatest challenge in its first F1 season?
The primary challenge is the simultaneous debut of a brand-new, in-house power unit under all-new technical regulations. While Audi benefits from Sauber’s existing chassis operations and infrastructure, developing a competitive F1 engine from scratch is a monumental task, even for a manufacturer with vast motorsport experience.
How can I watch the Audi F1 launch?
The full launch event was streamed live on the official Audi F1 website (audif1.com) and is available to replay. The team has also launched a new Content Hub for media and fans to access photos, footage, and updates.
What are the biggest changes in the 2026 F1 regulations?
The key changes include: smaller and lighter cars, a power unit with roughly 50% electric power, the removal of the MGU-H, active aerodynamics replacing DRS, and the mandatory use of 100% sustainable fuels. The budget cap has also increased to $215 million.