What: R26 Concept
Model Family: F1 Racecars
Series: Formula 1
Debuted: 2025 Audi One Event
Year: 2025
Number Produced: 1
Model / Generation Code(s): R26 2026-specification F1 Car
Chassis / Matrix: R26
Engine: Audi F1 Power Unit 2026, 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with Energy Recovery System (ERS)
Transmission: 8-speed
Power: approx. 400 kW
Peak Torque: unknown
Acceleration (0-100 km / 62 mph: unknown
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Race Cars: 2026 Audi R26 F1 Racecar
SUMMARY
The Audi R26 Concept is a design study created to preview Audi’s visual identity and design direction for its entry into the FIA Formula One World Championship in 2026. Unveiled at the Audi Brand Experience Center in Munich on November 12, 2025, the R26 Concept represents the first public expression of the brand’s unified design system as Audi prepares to field a full factory Formula One team. Although not a functioning race car, the R26 serves as a stylistic and symbolic precursor to the company’s first Formula One chassis, scheduled for reveal in early 2026.
OVERVIEW
The R26 Concept was introduced as part of Audi’s “Audi One” reveal event, which outlined the company’s technical, cultural and strategic vision for its Formula One program. Released alongside staged, high-resolution images of the debut venue, the concept formed a core element of Audi’s repositioning as it transitions toward a leaner, more performance-driven corporate identity.
According to Audi, the concept demonstrates how the brand intends to translate its newly defined aesthetic principles into motorsport. These principles are described as clear, technical, intelligent and emotional, forming the foundation of a broader design system that will influence both Audi’s Formula One operations and future production models.
DESIGN & VISUAL IDENTITY
The R26 Concept showcases a minimalist approach centered on geometric precision and reduced graphic complexity. Its surfaces are defined by clean cuts and uninterrupted forms intended to integrate naturally with the aerodynamic geometry of a modern Formula One car.
The color palette features titanium tones, carbon black and a new Audi red accent. As part of the brand’s updated identity, Audi also introduced red rings that will be used selectively for Formula One applications. The R26 is one of the first products to display this treatment.
Chief Creative Officer Massimo Frascella described the concept as “one of the first expressions of this new design system,” adding that Audi aims to create “the most striking car on the grid” and a “cultural impact that goes beyond the grid.” Frascella emphasized that the four rings serve as the foundation for a unified design language intended to align all facets of Audi’s brand presentation.
STRATEGIC ROLE IN FORMULA ONE PROGRAM
Audi intends for its Formula One program to function as a catalyst for corporate transformation. CEO Gernot Döllner stated that entry into Formula One is “the next step in the company’s renewal,” positioning the sport as a platform for reinforcing performance, precision and teamwork across Audi’s operations.
Döllner highlighted Formula One’s commercial and cultural value, noting that the cost cap ensures financial sustainability while the sport’s global audience creates opportunities in key markets such as the United States, Europe and China. He also linked the program to Audi’s historical motorsport achievements, referencing the Auto Union Grand Prix cars, quattro rally dominance and hybrid successes at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Audi acquired the Sauber Group in 2025 to form the foundation of its factory Formula One team and subsequently attracted major partners including adidas, bp and Revolut. The team is led by former Ferrari Team Principal Mattia Binotto and Team Principal-elect Jonathan Wheatley, both of whom emphasized the long-term nature of the project.
Binotto described the program as “the most exciting project in motorsports,” with a goal of fighting for championships by 2030. Wheatley underscored the importance of resilience, culture and collective belief in building a competitive organization.
TECHNICAL CONTEXT & REGULATIONS
Although the R26 Concept is not a functioning race chassis, it serves as a visual preview ahead of the regulatory overhaul scheduled for the 2026 Formula One season. These regulations introduce increased electrical power deployment, new aerodynamic guidelines and expanded opportunities for innovation in sustainable e-fuels.
Audi views the reset as an advantageous moment for entry, as all teams must adapt simultaneously to a new technical landscape. The company intends to use Formula One as a testbed for technologies relevant to its production portfolio, including electric mobility and fuels with reduced environmental impact.
PUBLIC PRESENTATION
The R26 Concept was revealed within a purpose-built exhibition space in Munich as part of the “Audi One” event. Official photographs released by Audi depicted the venue staged without attendees, highlighting the minimalist architectural environment in which the concept was displayed. The empty setting underscored Audi’s intention to present the concept as a pure design object, free of distraction.
The space featured illuminated red rings, titanium-toned surfaces, geometric light structures and large-format display walls echoing the brand’s new visual identity. The R26 was positioned as the centerpiece of the installation, intended to symbolize the beginning of Audi’s Formula One era.
LEGACY & SIGNIFICANCE
The Audi R26 Concept marks the company’s first public step toward its debut in Formula One. It establishes the visual and philosophical framework that will guide the design of Audi’s first race car and the branding of its works team. Positioned at the intersection of technology, culture and motorsport heritage, the R26 Concept is viewed as a foundational artifact in Audi’s transition into the 2026 Formula One World Championship.
PHOTO GALLERY
