Audi's R26 to Hit Track as First 2026 F1 Car

Audi is poised to make history, becoming the first team to run a car built for Formula 1's new 2026 regulations. The team's R26 chassis will take to the track at Barcelona for a promotional filming day with drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. This early track action marks a significant milestone for the German manufacturer as it prepares for its official debut as a full-factory works team.

Why it matters:

This initial run provides Audi with a crucial head start, allowing the team to conduct fundamental systems checks and gather early driver feedback before the official pre-season test. For a brand new factory team entering the sport with both a chassis and a power unit, every lap of data is invaluable for debugging and development. It's also the first real-world glimpse of the 2026 era, where active aerodynamics and increased electric power will define the competitive landscape.

The details:

• The R26 will run at Barcelona's Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on January 9.
• The event is classified as a "Promotional Event" under F1's sporting regulations, limiting the car to a maximum of 200km (approximately 42 laps).
• The car will be shod on Pirelli's demonstration tires, which are not the same compounds used during official race weekends.
• Drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto are scheduled to share driving duties.
• Each team is permitted two such filming days per season, and rivals are expected to follow suit with their own 2026 machinery shortly.

What's next:

Audi will officially launch its 2026 campaign with an event in Berlin on January 20. The first official pre-season test for all teams will take place at the same Barcelona circuit from January 26-30, where the R26 will run alongside its competitors for the first time. This early shakedown is just the first step in a high-stakes journey for Audi as it aims to quickly become a competitive force in F1's new era.