Audi's 2026 F1 Car Completes First Shakedown in Barcelona

Audi's 2026 Formula 1 car, the R26, successfully completed its first shakedown at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya this week. The debut run marked a significant milestone for the German manufacturer as it prepares to enter the sport after taking over the Sauber operation. Drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, who will form the team's race lineup, shared their positive initial impressions following the test.

Why it matters:

This first on-track appearance is a critical validation of Audi's massive investment and years of development ahead of its official F1 entry in 2026. The shakedown provides the first real-world data on the car's fundamental systems and the brand-new power unit, built from scratch for the new regulations. For a program aiming to challenge the top teams, a smooth and successful initial rollout is a crucial first step in building confidence and momentum within the team.

The details:

• The R26 chassis ran at Barcelona, utilizing the 200km limit allocated for promotional events or shakedowns outside of official testing.
• The primary goal was to check basic systems and gather initial data on the all-new Audi power unit, which has been developed entirely in-house for the 2026 regulation overhaul.
• Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto are set as Audi's official driver lineup, bringing continuity from their time together at the Sauber team last season. Both drivers took to social media to express their excitement about the car's first run.

What's next:

With the initial shakedown complete, the focus now shifts to more intensive pre-season testing in early 2026. The team will analyze the data gathered to refine the R26 before its competitive debut at the season-opening race. All eyes will be on Audi to see how their ambitious project translates into on-track performance against established F1 powerhouses.