Audi R26 single-seater graphics: titanium, black and red for the F1 team

Audi has officially kicked off a new era in motorsport by revealing the design graphics of its first Formula 1 single-seater. Although the actual racing car, called the Audi R26, will not be presented until January 2026, the launch event in Munich provided a clear glimpse into the visual identity that the German brand will adopt for its historic debut in the Grand Prix.

"Technical and Emotional" Design: A Return to the Roots

The graphics revealed on a 2026 concept car, called the R26 Concept, are a mix of modernity and subtle references to Audi's motorsport history. The color palette is composed of three main shades:

• Titan (Silver): This color, which covers the front wing, cockpit and front of the sidepods, is a tribute to the famous Silver Arrows from Auto Union of the 1930s, the precursor to Audi.
• Black (Carbon Black): Dominates the rear half of the car, symbolizing carbon fiber and the technical side.
• Audi Red: A vibrant shade of red that creates accents and precise graphic lines.

The iconic Audi four-ring symbol will be prominently integrated into the car, including on the front wing tip and engine hood. Audi officials stressed that the design, based on a new brand philosophy, aims to be “clear, technical, intelligent and emotional”, with the aim of making the R26 “the most spectacular car on the grid” in 2026.

Long-Term Ambitions: Champions by 2030

Audi's entry into Formula 1 is not just an adventure, but a major strategic move that involves taking over the current Kick Sauber team and developing its own power unit according to the new 2026 regulations.

The management team, which includes the experienced Mattia Binotto (Audi F1 Project Director) and Jonathan Wheatley (Team Principal), has stressed that they have a long-term vision. While they admit that they do not expect to fight for victories in the first season, the goal is set: Audi aims to become world champion in 2030.

Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto: Experience and Youth

The driver lineup for the 2026 debut season combines experience with youth.

• Nico Hulkenberg (37 years old): Experienced driver, known for his speed in qualifying, will be the team leader.
• Gabriel Bortoleto (20): The Brazilian talent, who made his F1 debut with the Sauber team in 2025, will continue with Audi. Bortoleto confessed that driving for Audi is a “dream come true”, feeling a special connection to the brand brought to Brazil by his idol, Ayrton Senna.

This driver combination is seen as an asset, with Hulkenberg providing mentorship and crucial feedback for the car's development, while Bortoleto represents the future.

Preparations on Three Fronts

The Audi F1 project is taking place in three key locations in Europe:

1. Neuburg an der Donau, Germany: This is where the Audi Power Unit is being developed, a hybrid engine that will have a much more powerful electric motor (almost equal in power to the 1.6-liter turbocharged thermal engine, which will use sustainable fuels).
2. Hinwil, Switzerland: The former Sauber headquarters, where the chassis will be developed and race operations will be managed.
3. Bicester, UK: A newly established technology hub to harness expertise from Britain's "Motor Valley".

The launch of the R26 concept is more than just a show of colors; it is a statement of intent. Audi enters F1 with a pragmatic approach, a distinctive visual identity and an ambitious plan that promises to bring a new major force to Formula 1.