Audi marked a landmark occasion with the official unveiling of the Audi Revolut Formula 1 Team in Berlin on Tuesday night. Around 400 invited guests attended the event at the Kraftwerk venue, witnessing the first public presentation of Audi’s factory-backed Formula 1 team.
Speaking at the launch, Audi AG CEO and Chairman of Audi Motorsport AG, Gernot Döllner, highlighted that years of preparation were now coming together. He emphasized that the project’s progress and teamwork were clearly visible and expressed Audi’s readiness and enthusiasm to compete in Formula 1 and inspire fans worldwide.
Audi will make its Formula 1 debut at the Australian Grand Prix on March 8
The team’s car, the Audi R26, is powered by the AFR 26 Hybrid power unit, developed at Audi’s Neuburg an der Donau facility. The engine was first started in the chassis shortly before Christmas in Hinwil, followed by the team’s initial on-track rollout on January 9 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya during a filming day.
Formula 1 is entering a new era in 2026 with sweeping technical changes as it begins its 77th season
The new regulations introduce adjustable front and rear wings and eliminate the DRS system, replacing it with a push-button boost mode that delivers extra electric power for overtaking or defense. The electric motor will produce up to 350 kW, nearly matching the 400 kW output of the 1.6-liter V6 turbo engine running on sustainable fuel, developed in partnership with bp.
During the Berlin event
Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley and Head of the Audi F1 Project Mattia Binotto also revealed the team’s race livery, official partners, and new driver apparel. Drivers Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hülkenberg will wear the new designs in the 2026 season. A fan merchandise collection will be released on February 19 through the team’s website and adidas. This forms part of a comprehensive visual identity created specifically for the Audi Revolut F1 Team, featuring unique colors and typography while remaining unmistakably Audi.
The event showcased Audi’s visual and performance heritage through an immersive presentation, historic race cars, and the Audi RS e-tron GT performance, the brand’s most powerful production vehicle. With an output of 680 kW, it closely rivals the power of the Formula 1 Audi R26.
The team’s next major step will be a private shakedown test of the new-generation Formula 1 cars in Barcelona from January 26 to 30. This will be followed by official pre-season testing in Bahrain in February, ahead of Audi’s first-ever Formula 1 Grand Prix appearance.
Audi’s entry into Formula 1 is a core element of its broader strategic transformation, highlighting the brand’s technological and cultural evolution
The project benefits from cost-controlled regulations, global exposure, and strong sponsorship potential. With Formula 1 moving toward greater electrification and sustainable fuels, Audi sees this as the ideal moment to join the sport.
“Motorsport has long been central to Audi’s identity, driving innovation from early Grand Prix engineering to quattro technology, and success in endurance racing, Formula E, and the Dakar Rally. Audi’s Formula 1 program aims to continue this legacy of innovation, determination, and competitive excellence”.
