Audi Reveals First Glimpse of 2026 F1 Car After Fake Images Circulate

Audi has completed its first shakedown of the 2026 Formula 1 car at Barcelona, releasing intentionally obscured images of the real machine after a wave of convincing fakes circulated online. With Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto at the wheel, the team focused on functionality checks rather than performance. The photos offer only a silhouette and a rear-garage glimpse, keeping the car's true design under wraps as the German manufacturer begins its F1 journey.

Why it matters:

This shakedown marks a critical first on-track milestone for Audi's ambitious F1 project, officially kicking off its journey after acquiring the Sauber team. By releasing controlled, obscured images, the manufacturer is managing expectations and narrative control following the social media chaos caused by the AI-generated fakes. It signals that while the project is progressing, the team is playing its cards close to its chest ahead of the highly competitive 2026 season.

The details:

• The shakedown took place at the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit with drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto sharing driving duties.
• Official Images: Audi released two heavily obscured photos: a distant, color front-on silhouette and a black-and-white shot from the rear in the garage. A third photo offered a mere glimpse of the new-look rear wing.
• Conservative Start: The power unit used for this initial run is a conservative version, with reliability and mileage collection being the primary focus. The final, homologated engine for 2026 is expected to be significantly different.
• Team Reveal: Images also showed team principal Mattia Binotto in new 'Audi Revolut F1 Team' gear, featuring a black design with white stripes in collaboration with new partner Adidas.

What's next:

Audi's focus now shifts to the official collective test later this month, where the car will run alongside all other 2026 competitors. While this early shakedown was about verifying basic systems, the upcoming tests will provide the first real look at the car's performance potential. The version seen in Barcelona is expected to be an early iteration, with the final race car for the Australian Grand Prix likely to be a more evolved and aggressive design.