Audi is making a grand entrance into Formula 1 with the official unveiling of its 2026 car, the Audi Revolut R26, showcasing a bold new livery. This highly anticipated debut marks a significant step for the German automaker, which aims not just to participate, but to dominate the grid. The striking design features a sophisticated blend of titanium, carbon black, and a vibrant new Audi Red, promising to be a standout visual on the track. With a seasoned driver and an emerging talent at the helm, and a powerful new engine at its core, Audi is signaling its serious intent to challenge for top honors in the pinnacle of motorsport.
The journey to this unveiling began in August 2022 with Audi's initial announcement of its Formula 1 entry, followed by a preview of the R26 concept late last year. Now, the final livery and detailed specifications have been revealed, igniting excitement among motorsport enthusiasts worldwide. Operating as Audi Revolut F1, the team's formation follows Audi's strategic acquisition of Sauber, a move set to reshape the competitive landscape after the 2025 season.
Guiding the team through its inaugural season will be team principal Jonathan Wheatley, a figure with extensive experience in the demanding world of Formula 1. Behind the wheel, the Audi Revolut R26 will be driven by a compelling duo: Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. Hülkenberg brings a wealth of experience, having been a familiar face in F1 since 2010, racing for various prominent teams and competing in other high-level motorsport categories like the World Endurance Championship and IndyCar.
His teammate, Gabriel Bortoleto, represents the future of the sport. The Brazilian prodigy impressed many by securing the Formula 3 title in 2023, and after a rookie F1 season with Sauber in 2025, he now steps up to join Audi Revolut. This blend of veteran expertise and fresh talent is expected to provide a strong foundation for the team's aspirations.
The R26's livery faithfully translates the initial concept into reality, featuring a dominant silver bodywork complemented by red and black accents towards the rear. Audi's iconic four-ring emblem, rendered in the new Audi Red, is prominently displayed on the car's air intake sides and rear wing, ensuring instant recognition. The drivers' race suits will mirror this aesthetic, incorporating matching black and silver with Audi Red highlights, creating a cohesive and distinctive team image. Beyond aesthetics, the R26 is engineered for performance. As Audi CEO Gernot Döllner emphasized, the brand's objective is clear: to win. To achieve this, Audi has developed a brand-new 1.6-liter turbocharged V6 engine, coupled with an advanced hybrid energy recovery system and a custom-designed transmission for the 2026 regulations.
The official presentation took place in Berlin, Germany, marking a pivotal moment for Audi's motorsport division. The car is scheduled to hit the track for the very first time during preseason testing in Bahrain in February, where its capabilities will be put to the test. The 2026 Formula 1 season will officially commence in March with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, where Audi Revolut F1 will make its competitive debut, aiming to make a significant impact from the outset.
Audi's entry into Formula 1, complete with its eye-catching Revolut R26 livery and a formidable driver lineup, underscores a clear ambition to contend at the highest level of motorsport. The strategic acquisition of Sauber, the development of a bespoke power unit, and the combination of veteran experience with emerging talent all point towards a serious commitment to success. As the 2026 season approaches, the motorsport world watches with anticipation to see how Audi's meticulous preparation and strong competitive drive will translate into performance on the global stage.
