Audi R26


The Audi R26 is an upcoming Formula One car, designed and constructed by Audi to compete in the 2026 Formula One World Championship. It is to be driven by Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto.
The R26 is the first Hinwil-based Formula One car to utilize BP fuel and Castrol lubricant products since the Sauber C14 in season and also the first overall since the Alpine A524. The R26 is also the first Hinwil-based Formula One car to utilize other than Ferrari engines since the BMW-powered BMW Sauber F1.09 in the season.

Background

Development context

Significant changes to the technical regulations were introduced for 2026, affecting both the chassis and engine.

Launch and pre-season testing

On 19 December 2025, Audi completed its inaugural fire up of the car at the team's Hinwil site in Switzerland. Their first shakedown of the R26 took place on 9 January 2026 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya and it was officially launched on 20 January 2026 at the Kraftwerk in Berlin.