Audi has officially revealed the livery for its 2026 Formula 1 entry, marking a significant step in the automaker’s ambitious return to the sport. The car, known as the R26, sports a striking color scheme combining titanium silver, carbon black, and the newly-developed Audi Red. The design aims to establish a strong visual identity as Audi prepares to compete under the Audi Revolut F1 banner following its acquisition of Sauber in 2025.
Driver Lineup and Experience
The team will be led by veteran driver Nico Hülkenberg, a familiar face in F1 with over a decade of experience across multiple teams including Williams, Aston Martin, and Force India. Hülkenberg brings a wealth of knowledge, having also competed in the World Endurance Championship and IndyCar. Alongside him will be Gabriel Bortoleto, a rising star who claimed the Formula 3 title in 2023 and spent his rookie F1 season with Sauber in 2025.
The pairing balances proven experience with fresh talent, positioning Audi Revolut F1 for competitive performance.
Design and Aesthetics
The R26’s livery closely resembles the initial concept unveiled in November, a deliberate choice that Audi seems pleased with. The titanium silver dominates the car’s bodywork, accented by sharp lines of Audi Red and carbon black toward the rear. The iconic four-ring logo is prominently displayed in Audi Red, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to a bold presence on the grid. Drivers will race in matching black and silver suits with Audi Red detailing.
Technical Preparations for Competition
Audi’s entry into F1 isn’t simply about aesthetics; the automaker intends to compete at the highest level. The team has developed a new 1.6-liter turbocharged V6 engine for the 2026 season, paired with a powerful hybrid energy recovery system and custom transmission. As Audi CEO Gernot Döllner stated, the goal is clear: “We want to win.”
Testing and Debut
The R26 made its official debut in Berlin, Germany, and will undergo rigorous testing in Bahrain during preseason sessions in February. The 2026 Formula 1 season will officially kick off at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne in March. Audi’s aggressive design and technical preparations signal a serious intent to disrupt the established order in Formula 1.
The bold color scheme and clear ambition of Audi Revolut F1 suggest the brand is poised to make a significant impact on the sport. The combination of a seasoned driver and a rising talent, backed by substantial technical investment, could shake up the competition when the 2026 season begins.
