Audi F1's 2026 Car Completes First Shakedown as Hülkenberg, Bortoleto React

Audi has become the first team to run its 2026 Formula 1 car, completing a shakedown at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto shared driving duties in the all-black R26, covering 200km in the team's first filming day. The event marks a significant milestone for the German manufacturer ahead of its official F1 debut season, with both drivers expressing their excitement about the project's early progress.

Why it matters:

• This shakedown makes Audi the first team to get its 2026 machinery on track, signaling their readiness and commitment for the new regulation era.
• For a major manufacturer entering F1, hitting these early milestones is crucial for building momentum, confidence, and credibility within the team and the paddock.
• The successful run provides an early, albeit limited, data-gathering opportunity before the intense and critical pre-season testing period begins later this month.

The details:

• The shakedown took place at Barcelona on Friday, January 9th, 17 days before the start of the first official pre-season test.
• The team was limited to 200km (approximately 42 laps) of running as per FIA regulations for filming days.
• Both Nico Hülkenberg and his rookie teammate Gabriel Bortoleto were behind the wheel, sharing driving duties in the new R26 chassis.
• The car ran in an all-black livery, a common practice for initial shakedowns before a public livery is revealed at the official launch.
• Driver Reactions: Hülkenberg praised the team's "fantastic effort," while Bortoleto expressed his happiness to "finally start this journey" with the team.

What's next:

• Audi will officially launch the R26 and present its 2026 livery at an event in Berlin on January 20.
• The first official pre-season test, held behind closed doors, will take place in Barcelona from January 26-30.
• Two further public pre-season tests are scheduled in Bahrain in February before the 2026 season begins with the Australian Grand Prix on March 8.