Audi has officially unveiled its first-ever Formula 1 livery, with the covers coming off the R26 at a launch event in Germany on Tuesday, marking a landmark moment in the manufacturer’s entry into the sport.
The 2026 season will represent the first time the famous Four Rings brand competes in Formula 1 as a full works outfit, following Audi’s complete takeover of the former Sauber team at the end of last year. After announcing its intention to join the grid back in August 2022, the project has steadily gathered momentum, and the R26 reveal now brings Audi’s long-term ambitions fully into the spotlight.
The launch took place at Kraftwerk Berlin, a former power station turned cultural venue, providing an industrial backdrop that reflected Audi’s blend of heritage and innovation. Both race drivers, Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, were present as the Audi Formula 1 project was showcased on a global stage for the first time.
Audi had already teased elements of its design philosophy by revealing a concept car late in 2025, but the R26 marks the brand’s first official Formula 1 livery. After running a blacked-out scheme during its initial filming day in Barcelona, the team has now revealed a far more distinctive and refined look.
The final livery is an evolution of the concept design, featuring a titanium-style finish across the front half of the car, complemented by red accents along the sidepods and airbox. This transitions into a darker black-and-red rear section, creating a sharp visual contrast that is unified by Audi’s iconic four-ring logo. Title sponsor Revolut features prominently, while the drivers were also unveiled in new teamwear produced through Audi’s partnership with Adidas.
During the launch, Audi was clear about its long-term vision. While the team will enter its debut season with realistic expectations, its ultimate goal is to be fighting for championships within five years.
Audi AG chairman and CEO Gernot Döllner said: “Formula 1 is the most demanding stage in the world of motorsport, and we are here not just to compete, but to define the future of ‘Vorsprung durch Technik.’
“This project is a catalyst for our entire company, a symbol of our transformation towards a more performance-driven, efficient, and innovative culture.
“Our philosophy is one of absolute, long-term commitment. We understand that success in Formula 1 demands relentless perseverance and Audi Revolut F1 Team is not here to make up the numbers; we aim to be fighting for the World Championship by 2030.”
Head of the Audi F1 project Mattia Binotto echoed that ambition, highlighting the importance of Audi’s fully integrated approach.
“The strategic decision to enter Formula 1 as a full works team is our single greatest asset,” Binotto said.
“We have spent the last few years meticulously building not just a power unit in Neuburg but laying the foundations for a technical organisation that binds our chassis development in Hinwil and Bicester.
“This seamless integration gives us total control over our destiny, eliminating compromises and enabling a level of agility and innovation that is essential for success.
“This is what makes Audi Revolut F1 Team one vision, controlling every variable from the engine block to the front wing. This is the foundation upon which championships are built.”
Audi will now turn its attention to on-track running, with the R26 set to appear in the first pre-season shakedown behind closed doors at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya from 26 to 30 January. As Formula 1 prepares for a new regulatory era, Audi’s arrival adds another major manufacturer to the grid and signals the beginning of a carefully planned journey toward the front of the sport.
