Audi Officially announces Formula 1 Entry with Revolutionary 2026 Car Design
INGOLSTADT, Germany - Audi today formally announced its entry into Formula 1 in 2026, coinciding with a important overhaul of the sport’s regulations. The German manufacturer views the upcoming rule changes as a prime opportunity to build a successful long-term presence in the premier motorsport series.
“Entering Formula 1 has never been better than in the last 30 years with this rule change,” stated Audi board member Gernot Döllner. He further emphasized Audi’s ancient success in racing, adding, ”Whenever Audi has entered a racing series, Audi has been successful.”
The 2026 regulations, decided by the world association in 2023, represent a dramatic shift in Formula 1 technology. Key changes include:
* Increased Electric Power: The proportion of electric power in the engines will significantly increase, with the battery generating 480 hp – a threefold increase from the current 160 hp. Simultaneously, the combustion engine’s power output will decrease from 750 hp to 540 hp.
* Sustainable Fuel: All drive units will be required to utilize 100 percent sustainable fuel. Combined with more efficient aerodynamics and reduced combustion engine horsepower, this is projected to save 15 to 20 percent fuel.
* Enhanced Energy Recovery: The amount of energy gained during braking will double.
* Aerodynamic & Dimensional Changes: Cars will be narrower, shrinking from 200 to 190 centimeters, and feature a shorter wheelbase (360cm to 340cm). Movable front and rear wings (ten centimeters narrower at the front) are designed to increase cornering speeds.
* Weight Reduction: Racers will shed 30 kilograms, reducing the maximum car weight from 798 kg to 768 kg.
Döllner positioned the Formula 1 entry as “part of something bigger,” describing it as “the next step in the realignment of the company with the aim of strengthening our position in global competition.” He believes the demanding environment of Formula 1 will foster a “new performance orientation throughout the company and a catalyst for change towards a leaner,faster and more innovative Audi.”
Development of the R26 drive unit began in 2022, with initial testing conducted exclusively in simulators. On-track testing is scheduled to commence january 26-30, 2025, in Barcelona, initially behind closed doors. Public testing will follow in Bahrain on February 11th,offering fans their first glimpse of the competitive landscape.
Audi’s Formula 1 cars will be visually distinctive, sporting a color scheme of titanium, carbon black, and a newly introduced Audi red. The company aims to create “the most striking car on the race track when entering the premier class of motorsport.”
