The rebranded Audi team, which was formerly known as Sauber, has officially taken to the track with their new Formula 1 car, the R26, during a filming day at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. This event marks a significant milestone for the team as they gear up for the highly anticipated first pre-season test scheduled to occur at the same venue from January 26 to January 30. This transition signifies Audi’s evolution from a customer team to a fully operational works outfit, showcasing their dedication to building their own engine in accordance with the newly implemented technical regulations for the 2026 season.
On Friday, Audi made headlines by becoming the first team to run a 2026 Formula 1 car, utilizing one of their two designated filming days to shakedown the new R26. This shakedown is particularly crucial given the sweeping changes to both the chassis and engine that the new regulations entail. To facilitate thorough preparation for the upcoming racing season, the FIA has scheduled three pre-season testing events, the first of which will provide teams an opportunity to assess their cars under real track conditions.
As teams prepare for the 2026 season, it is anticipated that several will opt to conduct similar filming days to ensure their vehicles are optimized for competition. However, Audi has set a compelling precedent by being the first to take such action, effectively laying the groundwork for their upcoming campaign. Their activity on social media provides fans with a glimpse of their day: a curated selection of images showcasing the setup in the pit lane and garage, although the photos offer minimal insights into the car’s design, in line with regulations prohibiting detailed visual disclosures prior to official team launches.
Among the snapshots shared, one features the R26 as it gracefully navigates the pit lane, captured from a distance to highlight its sleek form, while another shot presents the vehicle from behind while stationed in its pit box. A third image tantalizingly displays just the right-hand side of the car’s rear wing, creating intrigue and excitement in the minds of motorsport enthusiasts, who are eager to see what innovations the team has implemented given the new regulations.
Driving the R26 during this foundational outing were seasoned drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, both of whom are expected to play vital roles in the team’s performance this season. Their feedback during this testing phase is invaluable as it informs the team about the car’s handling characteristics and overall dynamics, critical elements as they prepare for the future tests and ultimately the competitive races. The presence of team principal Jonathan Wheatley and Audi F1 head Mattia Binotto during this formative moment further emphasizes the importance of this day in establishing a strong foundation for the team’s ambitions.
In their Instagram announcement, Audi captured the excitement of the occasion with an optimistic statement: “We’re officially rolling. A milestone moment in Barcelona as the R26 hit a racetrack for the very first time. First day. First laps. First chance for our drivers to experience the car. The road ahead starts right here.” This declaration underlines the team’s collective enthusiasm and readiness as they embark on what they hope will be a successful and competitive season.
Looking to the future, Audi has plans to reveal their new team identity and car livery at a special event in Berlin on January 20, just five days prior to the R26’s return to the track for a closed-door initial test. This event promises to offer fans and stakeholders a first look at the design direction Audi has chosen to represent them in the Formula 1 landscape.
All 11 teams participating in the 2026 F1 season have now disclosed their launch plans, with the Red Bull teams kicking off the launch season with their livery presentations set at new partner Ford’s headquarters in Detroit on January 15. As the excitement builds surrounding each team’s preparations and designs, motorsport fans are left eagerly awaiting the unique strategies and innovations that will define this upcoming racing season. With Audi now firmly entrenched in the competitive sphere, anticipation continues to mount for how they will adapt and thrive in their new role, along with the high expectations that accompany it.
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