UPDATE: Audi has officially launched its long-anticipated Formula 1 program, revealing its plans for the 2026 season and setting an ambitious goal to compete for championships by 2030. The announcement was made at a high-profile launch event in Munich, where Audi showcased its striking 2026 challenger, marking a significant milestone in its motorsport journey.
The event highlighted the team’s structure and strategic vision as Audi prepares to enter the competitive world of Formula 1. Veteran team leader Mattia Binotto, formerly of Ferrari, will oversee the F1 project. Meanwhile, Jonathan Wheatley, a seasoned figure from Red Bull, will manage trackside operations, ensuring a robust setup akin to that of McLaren’s leadership team.
Audi’s ambitious F1 venture is anchored in a dual-site strategy, with the powertrain being developed in Neuberg, Germany, and the chassis constructed at the newly acquired Sauber facility in Hinwil, Switzerland. This integration of resources is crucial for synchronizing powertrain and chassis development, which will be vital for Audi’s success on the track.
The team is approximately six weeks away from its first public winter test, generating excitement among fans and industry insiders. The initial reveal included a dummy car featuring a striking titanium silver and Audi red livery, symbolizing both performance and the brand’s heritage.
Drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto are set to take the wheel, with Hülkenberg expressing enthusiasm for the project. He emphasized the energy and ambition within the team, viewing the upcoming 2026 season as a fresh start that embraces new rules and opportunities.
The 2026 season will usher in significant regulatory changes, placing a greater emphasis on electric power and flexibility in fuel regulations. The revised hybrid system is expected to generate 350 kW of energy, significantly boosting performance while reducing the overall budget to €180 million.
While Audi brings valuable experience from its participation in Formula E and Dakar, the challenge of producing 50-100 Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) annually is unprecedented. The partnership with BP as its fuel supplier is anticipated to provide tailored solutions for Audi’s ICE components, despite the inherent challenges of limited data compared to competitors.
As the project unfolds, Binotto has articulated a long-term vision for Audi’s success in Formula 1, rooted in the brand’s rich motorsport heritage, which includes iconic achievements from the Auto Union Silver Arrows to Le Mans victories.
Wheatley has also addressed the importance of teamwork and resilience, reinforcing that setbacks will be viewed as opportunities for learning and growth. This F1 initiative represents a monumental endeavor for Audi, demanding continuous innovation and collective engagement from all team members.
As Audi gears up for its first test and the 2026 season approaches, motorsport fans and industry experts alike are closely watching this bold entry into Formula 1. Expect more updates as the team solidifies its strategy and prepares for a competitive future on the racetrack.
