Audi Unveils F1 2026 Concept: Colors, Design, and Ambition in the Top Category

Audi Reveals Colors and Conceptual Design for its Entry into Formula 1 in 2026

Just 115 days before its official debut in Formula 1, Audi has presented its brand, color combination, and conceptual design for the 2026 season. The German brand, which acquired the Sauber team earlier this year, revealed the concept at an event held in Munich, Germany, on Wednesday. The Swiss team, based in Switzerland, will be renamed, and the complete presentation of the livery and branding is scheduled for January, before the unveiling of the complete car and the F1 winter tests in Barcelona in February. The R26 concept showcases the company’s classic racing colors: titanium, Audi red, and carbon black, paying homage to its motorsport legacy, including rally, Le Mans, and Formula E. These colors are presented in a geometric design. The livery also incorporates the iconic Audi rings in red.

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

Massimo Frascella, Creative Director of Audi

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 every aspect 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 team drivers, German Nico Hulkenberg and Brazilian Gabriel Bortoleto, will continue next year, as will team director Jonathan Wheatley, and former Ferrari team director Mattia Binotto, who manages the F1 project. Audi has announced partnerships with BP, including sustainable fuels, Adidas and Revolut, in addition to the entry 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, faster, and innovative Audi.

Gernot Döllner, CEO of Audi

Döllner also stated: “We don’t enter Formula 1 just to be there. 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 tirelessly questioning the status quo. By 2030, we want to fight for the World Championship title.”