Audi's first Formula 1 car will look like this
What's the story
Audi has revealed the design of its first-ever Formula 1 car, the R26 Concept. The vehicle is part of a new brand identity for the entire company and features titanium, carbon black, and a new shade of Audi red. It also sports red rings and will serve as a "pioneer" for this new look.
Strategic move
Audi's F1 journey and key personnel
Audi made its F1 debut by acquiring the Sauber Group in 2022. The company has since been working on a turbocharged 1.6-liter V6 engine, an energy recovery system, and other power unit components such as the transmission. The team's leadership includes former Ferrari Team Principal Mattia Binotto and ex-Red Bull Sporting Director Jonathan Wheatley.
Upcoming events
Testing and racing debut schedule
Audi's Formula 1 car will be seen in action for the first time during testing in Bahrain next February. Its racing debut is scheduled for March at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne. Despite entering a highly competitive arena, Audi has set ambitious goals for the end of this decade.
Future plans
Audi's ambitious goals in Formula 1
Audi CEO Gernot Dollner has clarified the company's long-term ambitions in Formula 1. He said, "We are not entering Formula 1 just to be there. We want to win." However, he also acknowledged that becoming a top team in this sport requires time, perseverance, and constant questioning of the status quo. By 2030, Audi hopes to compete for the World Championship title.