Audi unveils R26 concept ahead of F1 debut

Audi has unveiled its R26 concept car that provides a preview of the new Formula 1 team’s identity ahead of its debut in 2026.

A launch event at Audi’s Brand Experience Center in Munich was held on Wednesday night to showcase the team’s planned look, with a concept car – titled the R26 – carrying titanium, carbon black and the newly introduced Audi red in its livery. The 2026 car itself will be unveiled in January, but Audi says the design incorporates “minimalist graphic surfaces, defined by precise geometric cuts, [that] integrate seamlessly with the racing car’s geometry.”

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Audi is taking over the existing Sauber team and will run its works F1 project across three separate locations. The chassis will be manufactured at Sauber’s headquarters in Hinwil, Switzerland, while the power unit is being produced at a bespoke facility – Audi Formula Racing GmbH in Neuburg an der Donau, Germany. A technology office in Bicester, England, was also opened this year to tap into talent near the majority of rival F1 teams.

“Formula 1 is more than just motorsport,” Audi CFO Jurgen Rittersberger said. “It’s entertainment, emotion, technology – and also a challenge. But it is precisely this combination that takes us where we want to go: inspiring new customer groups for Audi.

“With the enormous reach of Formula 1, we have the opportunity to attract new customers for our brand – especially in the younger target group, where Formula 1 is experiencing rapid growth.

“Thanks to the cost cap, Formula 1 is also more financially sustainable than ever before. When we look at the development of sponsorship opportunities, team evaluations, and the overall revenue potential in Formula 1, one thing becomes clear: This path makes perfect sense for Audi – also economically.”

Audi first announced its arrival in the summer of 2022, with its plans with Sauber confirmed later that year. It has since constructed a new 3,300 sq. ft. building at its Neuberg facility, and first ran a complete new power unit in May of 2024.

While the team’s brand identity did not incorporate the full planned livery or sponsors, Audi has already confirmed Revolut as its title partner for 2026, with Adidas entering into an apparel partnership with the team.