Audi Confirms Entry into Formula 1 in 2026, Reveals R26 Concept Car with Championship Ambitions by 2030

hortly after assuming the role of CEO in 2023, Audi’s Markus Duesmann made it clear: Audi would enter Formula 1 by 2026. That vision is now becoming a reality. With the 2026 season approaching, Audi has unveiled the R26 Formula 1 concept car, underscoring its goal of becoming an F1 championship contender by 2030.

The R26 concept showcases a distinctive design featuring a titanium finish, carbon black, and Audi red accents, with clean geometric cuts and detailed styling that reflect a unique aesthetic vision. Through its F1 involvement, Audi aims to deeply integrate cutting-edge technological developments and new material applications.

Audi will introduce a new hybrid power unit concept in F1, with the electric motor’s output increasing to approximately three times current levels—reaching a level comparable to the internal combustion engine. Starting in 2026, the combustion engine will run entirely on sustainable fuel. Technologies developed through the F1 program are expected to eventually trickle down to Audi’s production vehicles.

The Audi F1 Team is scheduled to make its official public debut in January 2026. The new-generation F1 car will then undergo its first official test in late January at Barcelona, Spain, in a closed session. Audi’s factory team will conduct its first public F1 test during two sessions in Bahrain. The brand’s highly anticipated competitive race debut will take place on March 6–8 in Melbourne, Australia.

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