Audi R26 F1 launch: German brand reveal livery in Berlin for first season on grid after taking over Sauber team

Audi R26 F1 launch: German brand reveal livery in Berlin for first season on grid after taking over Sauber team | F1 News

January 20, 2026:

Audi have announced their arrival in Formula 1 by revealing a sleek 2026 livery at a glitzy launch event in Berlin.

Audi are making a first appearance in Formula 1 after taking over what was formerly the Sauber team, but are also taking on the major challenge of manufacturing their own engine.

Their entry to the sport coincides with the introduction of new engine and chassis regulations, with the more sustainable nature of the former being a crucial factor in the German brand’s desire to join the grid.

The team had already shared its livery concept at an event in November last year, but the final product was revealed on Tuesday with title sponsor Revolut added to the titanium silver and and bright Audi red body, with the brand’s four-ring logo featuring on a carbon black engine cover.

Gernot Dollner, the chief executive of the wider Audi brand, made clear the ambitious targets the company are setting for its new F1 team as he said: “We all share one clear vision: to compete at the highest level and to fight for championships by 2030.”

Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto form the Swiss-based team’s driver line-up for the second year running, with the pairing helping the outfit to an improved showing in their final year under the Sauber name.

Ninth represented a one-place improvement in the standings but their total of 70 points was comfortably their best since 2012, aided by Hulkenberg’s first-career podium in F1 at the 239th attempt at the British Grand Prix.

Audi’s operations are spread across Europe with chassis and race operations managed from Hinwil, Switzerland, power unit construction in Neuberg, Germany, while the team have also established a technology centre in Bicester, England.

When is F1 pre-season testing?

The introduction of new regulations means there is a robust schedule of three separate testing events before the start of the 2026 season.

The first is a behind-closed-doors event in Barcelona from January 26-30, before two tests follow in Bahrain from February 11-13 and 18-20.

When is the first F1 race?

The teams then have two weeks to prepare for the opening round of the season, which is the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne from March 6-8.

The first practice sessions of the season will take place on Friday 6 March, with Qualifying on Saturday 7 March and the opening race on Sunday 8 March.

Watch all 24 race weekends from the 2026 Formula 1 season live on Sky Sports F1. Stream Sky Sports with NOW – No contract, cancel anytime

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