Audi has unveiled its R26 idea automotive that gives a preview of the brand new Components 1 workforce’s id forward of its debut in 2026.
A launch occasion at Audi’s Model Expertise Heart in Munich was held on Wednesday night time to showcase the workforce’s deliberate look, with an idea automotive – titled the R26 – carrying titanium, carbon black and the newly launched Audi purple in its livery. The 2026 automotive itself shall be unveiled in January, however Audi says the design incorporates “minimalist graphic surfaces, outlined by exact geometric cuts, [that] combine seamlessly with the racing automotive’s geometry.”
Audi is taking up the present Sauber workforce and can run its works F1 mission throughout three separate areas. The chassis shall be manufactured at Sauber’s headquarters in Hinwil, Switzerland, whereas the ability unit is being produced at a bespoke facility – Audi Components Racing GmbH in Neuburg an der Donau, Germany. A know-how workplace in Bicester, England, was additionally opened this yr to faucet into expertise close to nearly all of rival F1 groups.
“Components 1 is extra than simply motorsport,” Audi CFO Jurgen Rittersberger stated. “It’s leisure, emotion, know-how – and likewise a problem. However it’s exactly this mixture that takes us the place we need to go: inspiring new buyer teams for Audi.
“With the large attain of Components 1, we’ve the chance to draw new prospects for our model – particularly within the youthful goal group, the place Components 1 is experiencing fast progress.
“Due to the price cap, Components 1 can be extra financially sustainable than ever earlier than. After we have a look at the event of sponsorship alternatives, workforce evaluations, and the general income potential in Components 1, one factor turns into clear: This path makes excellent sense for Audi – additionally economically.”
Audi first introduced its arrival in the summertime of 2022, with its plans with Sauber confirmed later that yr. It has since constructed a brand new 3,300 sq. ft. constructing at its Neuberg facility, and first ran a whole new energy unit in Might of 2024.
Whereas the workforce’s model id didn’t incorporate the complete deliberate livery or sponsors, Audi has already confirmed Revolut as its title associate for 2026, with Adidas getting into into an attire partnership with the workforce.
