The primary launch of the brand new energy unit in Audi’s 2026 chassis was a milestone that gave the crew “unbelievable vitality”, stated F1 venture director Mattia Binotto.
The previous Sauber crew will likely be taken over by Audi as a full constructor from this season, marking the entry of a totally new energy unit provider into F1. Audi’s venture has been ongoing for a few years, however the energy unit and chassis mixture was efficiently began for the primary time in late December.
“Pleasure is all the time a particular second, however this one marks a brand new starting,” Binotto stated. “It is a tangible results of our collective ambition and the devoted efforts of the Neuburg and Hinwil groups. Seeing the whole lot come collectively for the primary time offers the entire venture unbelievable vitality. We have now constructed a stable basis for an extended journey outlined by a relentless drive for enchancment.”
The primary Audi vehicles are anticipated to take to the monitor alongside the remainder of the grid throughout a personal shakedown in Barcelona later this month, earlier than official pre-season testing begins in Bahrain in February.
“The success of this activation is a vital milestone that demonstrates the standard of labor and collaboration throughout all departments,” stated crew principal Jonathan Wheatley. “This can energize the whole crew and provides us a transparent focus as we put together for the following phases of improvement, together with the second we first take the automotive to the monitor. This achievement focuses on our first race in Melbourne and we’ll proceed to construct on this basis as one cohesive crew.”
The broader F1 venture is usually supported by Audi CEO Gernot Dorner, who sees the crew’s future entry as a spotlight for the whole firm.
“For Audi, coming into F1 is a vital a part of the model’s continued renewal,” Dorner stated. “This milestone is a transparent demonstration of our ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ ambition. It’s the results of seamless teamwork and the fixed pursuit of excellence, and can function a guideline for the whole Audi group.”
“This venture is a catalyst for change and fosters satisfaction, id and enthusiasm. This enthusiasm actually brings to life the laborious work of the Hinwil, Neuburg and Bicester groups and marks the start of an thrilling new chapter in Audi’s motorsport historical past.”
Audi will formally begin its 2026 season with full race livery in Berlin on January twentieth, six days earlier than the beginning of the shakedown in Barcelona.
