Audi's F1 Debut Reveals Massive Challenge with 'Longest Ever' Problem List

Audi's first Formula 1 pre-season test revealed a daunting array of issues, with team chief Mattia Binotto stating he has "never seen such a long list" of problems to fix. The new factory team completed 240 laps over three days in Barcelona, but was hampered by numerous niggling reliability problems with its R26 car and in-house power unit.

Why it matters:

As the only fully independent new entrant for 2026—building both chassis and power unit entirely in-house—Audi faces a uniquely steep learning curve. The sheer volume of issues uncovered highlights the monumental challenge of starting an F1 operation from scratch, especially compared to rival new power unit supplier Red Bull Powertrains, which will supply two teams and gather twice the data.

The details:

• The Barcelona shakedown, while productive for mileage, exposed a significant number of small but critical problems that must be resolved before competitive racing begins.
• Reserve driver Gabriel Bortoleto even stopped on track during one session, underscoring the reliability hurdles.
• Binotto emphasized the team's "no stone left unturned" approach, requiring intense work from drivers, trackside engineers, and designers back at the factory to address every detail on the extensive list.
• The Data Disadvantage: Unlike Red Bull Powertrains, which will power two teams, Audi operates as a single entity. This means it has only one source of on-track data, putting it at a potential information-gathering disadvantage during the critical development phase.

The big picture:

Despite the challenges, the team views the test as a vital and positive step in its long-term journey. Binotto pointed out that having a comprehensive list of issues is ultimately beneficial, as it provides a clear roadmap for improvement. The three days of running were deemed "very, very important" for a team in the early stages of building its F1 operation from the ground up.

What's next:

The immediate focus is a relentless effort to solve the identified problems before pre-season testing in Bahrain this February. The team's commitment and willingness to improve are seen as key assets. Every running session between now and the season opener is a crucial opportunity to learn, with Binotto summarizing the situation: "The more we run, the more we learn." The coming months will test Audi's ability to translate its substantial resources and commitment into track-ready reliability.