Audi reveals the concept design for its Formula 1 debut in 2026

Audi Reveals its Design and Colors for Formula 1 in 2026

Just 115 days before its official debut in Formula 1, Audi has presented its brand, colors, and design concept for the 2026 season. This announcement marks a significant milestone in the team’s preparation for its entry into the top category of motorsport. Audi, which acquired the Sauber team earlier this year, presented the concept at an event in Munich, Germany. The Swiss brand, which will now operate under the name Audi, will fully reveal its design and branding in January, before the complete presentation of the car and the F1 winter tests in Barcelona, in February. The R26 concept presents the brand’s classic competition colors: titanium, Audi red, and carbon black. These colors pay homage to Audi’s rich motorsport heritage, including rally, Le Mans, and Formula E. The geometric and modern design incorporates the iconic Audi rings in red.

The Audi R26 concept is a clear statement and offers a preview of the color combination and design of the brand’s first Formula 1 racing car, which will be unveiled in January.

Massimo Frascella, Audi Creative Director

Frascella added that this visual identity is based on the recently introduced design philosophy and its four principles: clear, technical, intelligent, and emotional. “We are implementing a unifying design language that unites all aspects of our organization. This makes the Formula 1 project a pioneer for the new brand identity, which will be implemented in the future for both the F1 team and Audi as a whole.”

The current drivers of the team, German Nico Hulkenberg and Brazilian Gabriel Bortoleto, will remain in their positions next year. Team principal Jonathan Wheatley and Mattia Binotto, former Ferrari team principal, who manages the F1 project, will also continue in their roles. Audi has announced partnerships with BP, including sustainable fuels, Adidas and Revolut, in addition to the participation of Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund as an investor.

By entering the pinnacle of motorsport, Audi is making a clear and ambitious statement. It is the next chapter in the company’s renewal. Formula 1 will be a catalyst for change towards a more agile, fast, and innovative Audi.

Gernot Döllner, CEO of Audi

Döllner emphasized that Audi’s goal is not simply to participate, but to win. “We want to win. At the same time, we know that you don’t become a top team in Formula 1 overnight. It takes time, perseverance, and incessant questioning of the status quo. By 2030, we want to fight for the World Championship title.”