First announced in 2022, Audi has finally unveiled its concept livery for the 2026 season. The reveal took place at Audi’s Brand Experience Centre in Munich, offering the first glimpse of the German team’s colour scheme for the upcoming season.
This official event also served to make Audi’s intentions and commitment to Formula 1 clear from the start. Audi’s CEO, Gernot Döllner, emphasised that the team aims not only to compete, but to fight for Championships in the near future.
A first look at Audi’s R26 concept
As the Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber fades into the sunset alongside the old regulations, Audi bids farewell to the neon green and welcomes its new colours: titanium, carbon black, and Audi red. A palette that the team claims embodies all the nuances of human-centred innovation and “captures every aspect of the organisation.”
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Audi’s entry into the pinnacle of motorsport is a strategic one, with the R26 reveal marking the first step in a company-wide rebranding that will see the brand adopt this colour trifecta beyond the racetrack.
To complement the colours, the official livery will also feature Audi’s iconic four rings in red, representing the brand’s Formula 1 presence.
Audi is bringing motorsport heritage to Formula 1
Although new to Formula 1, the German team has a long history of winning and breaking barriers in motorsport. Case in point: Audi dominated Le Mans for over a decade, claiming 13 titles from 2000 to 2014.
This is the same brand that proved that you didn’t need a V8 to win a rally in the 1980s – their five-cylinder engine was more than enough. So, the team’s philosophy has always revolved around doing things differently, and they will carry that over to Formula 1.
Audi’s CEO, Gernot Döllner, highlighted the team’s commitment to mastering yet another motorsport arena, tempered with a dose of cautionary realism:
“Formula 1 will be a catalyst for the change towards a leaner, faster and more innovative Audi. We are not entering Formula 1 just to be there. We want to win. At the same time, we know that you don’t become a top team in Formula 1 overnight. It takes time, perseverance and tireless questioning of the status quo.”
Döllner continues to make a bold statement, “By 2030, we want to fight for the World Championship title.”
Team Principal, Mattia Binotto, outlined a three-phased plan: start as a challenger, evolve into a competitor with early successes, and ultimately become a champion. Straightforward in theory, but can the German outfit really challenge for the Championship in the next five years?
