Audi Fires Up First F1 Engine, Marking Major Milestone for 2026 Debut

Audi has successfully fired up its first-ever Formula 1 power unit, a landmark moment for the manufacturer's 2026 entry. Driver Gabriel Bortoleto described the sound as 'amazing,' giving him 'goosebumps everywhere,' as the R26 chassis and engine roared to life in unison. The team now moves swiftly to its next critical phase: the first on-track run of a 2026-spec car.

Why it matters:

This fire-up is more than just a technical procedure; it's the symbolic heartbeat of Audi's ambitious F1 project coming to life. After years of development and significant investment, hearing the engine run validates the team's progress and provides a massive psychological boost. For a new manufacturer entering the sport, this milestone proves the project is on track and transforms abstract plans into a tangible, competitive reality.

The details:

• First Fire-Up: The power unit and chassis, designated the R26, were successfully started at Audi's Neuburg headquarters in Germany, with both drivers Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hülkenberg in attendance.
• Driver Reaction: "When they were revving up the engine I was getting goosebumps everywhere," Bortoleto said. "I just want to drive it... it sounds amazing."
• On-Track Debut: Audi will conduct a filming day at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, making it the first team to run its 2026 machinery on track. The session allows for up to 200km of running to verify key systems.
• Team Perspective: Team principal Jonathan Wheatley called the event a "critical milestone" that energizes the team and sharpens the focus on the season opener in Melbourne.

What's next:

• Livery Launch: Audi will unveil the official livery of the R26 at a launch event in Berlin on January 20.
• Pre-Season Testing: The team will then join the rest of the grid for official pre-season testing, also in Barcelona, beginning on January 26.
• Race Debut: All these steps are leading up to Audi's highly anticipated Grand Prix debut at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.