Audi has officially begun its Formula 1 journey with the launch of the livery that will adorn the challenger that will contest the 2026 World Championship.
The German marque has already taken to the track to shake down its R26 ahead of the first official pre-season tests that commence next week.
But the next step has been taken by unveiling the livery for the car to be driven by Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto at an event in Berlin.
The team, which will continue to be predominantly based in Hinwil – following on from its predecessor Sauber – and will be known fully as Audi Revolut F1 Team, had already confirmed the colours for the car at a previous event last year.
But now the R26 has its genuine identity, giving the world a look at how the car will appear when it takes to the grid for its maiden campaign.
After beginning its F1 entry plan in 2022, it officially acquired Sauber a year ago, and since then, the Audi squad has increased its preparations with securing a number of partnerships, including with title sponsor Revolut, Adidas, BP and Castrol, affirming the team’s statement of intent to be a force in F1 within the next few seasons.
Head of the Audi F1 Project, Mattia Binotto, said: “The strategic decision to enter Formula 1 as a full works team is our single greatest asset.
“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.”
The R26’s first on-track appearance with its colour scheme will be at the Circuit de-Barcelona Catalunya on January 26.
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