Audi has unveiled the R26 idea automotive, previewing the identification of its new F1 crew forward of its debut in 2026.
A launch occasion was held on the Audi Model Expertise Middle in Munich on Wednesday night time, exhibiting off the crew’s deliberate look with an idea automotive named R26 that includes titanium, carbon black and the newly launched Audi Crimson livery. The 2026 automotive itself will probably be unveiled in January, and Audi says its design incorporates “minimalist graphic surfaces outlined by exact geometric cuts” that combine seamlessly with the race automotive’s geometry.
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Audi will take over the present Sauber crew and can function its works F1 undertaking from three separate places. The chassis will probably be manufactured at Sauber’s headquarters in Hinwil, Switzerland, and the ability unit will probably be produced at Audi System Racing GmbH, a custom-built facility in Neuburg an der Donau, Germany. A technical workplace in Bicester, England, was additionally opened this 12 months to faucet into expertise near the vast majority of rival F1 groups.
Audi CFO Jürgen Rittersberger mentioned: “F1 is extra than simply motorsport.” “It is leisure, emotion, expertise and on the similar time a problem. But it surely’s exactly this mixture that can take us to our vacation spot: inspiring a brand new group of Audi prospects.”
“The affect of F1 is important and there is a chance to draw new prospects for our model, significantly within the youthful goal group the place F1 is experiencing fast development.
“Because of the associated fee cap, F1 can also be extra financially sustainable than ever earlier than. After we take a look at the event of sponsorship alternatives, crew valuations and the general income potential in F1, one factor turns into clear: this path makes good sense for Audi financially.”
Audi first introduced it might arrive in the summertime of 2022, and plans with Sauber had been confirmed later that 12 months. A brand new 3,300 sq. foot constructing was then constructed on the Neuberg facility and the fully new energy unit was commissioned for the primary time in Might 2024.
Though the crew’s model identification didn’t incorporate the livery or sponsorship that had been totally deliberate, Audi has already confirmed Revolut as its title companion for 2026, and Adidas has an attire partnership with the crew.
