Audi confirms F1 2026 milestone as R26 fired up for first time
Audi will be joining the grid in 2026, having initially announced its entry back in 2022.
Audi has confirmed the successful fire-up of its F1 2026 engine within the chassis as preparations ramp up for its Formula 1 debut.
Audi will be one of two new naes on the block for F1 2026 – alongside the all-new Cadillac squad – following its takeover of Sauber. With the first test just weeks away, Audi has confirmed that, its power unit was started up within the R26 chassis for the first time on 19 December in Hinwil.
Audi R26 roars into life
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Anticipation is building for the season of Formula 1 action ahead, as the series embraces a complete reset with new chassis and engine regulations.
Audi has arrived in Formula 1 on both fronts, as a chassis and engine manufacturer, looking to push on from the strong base which predecessor Sauber left behind.
The new-look cars will first hit the track in Barcelona as part of a closed-doors test from 26-30 January. Audi has taken a major step forward in its preparations by confirming that their first F1 car, the R26, was successfully fired-up in an event at their Hinwil chassis base on 19 December.
The Audi F1 power unit operation is housed in Neuburg, Germany, while the marque has also established a new technical centre in Bicester, England.
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Reacting to the successful R26 fire-up, Audi F1 chief Mattia Binotto said: “A fire-up is always a special moment, but this one marks a new beginning.
“It is the tangible result of our collective ambition and the dedicated work of our teams in Neuburg and Hinwil.
“Seeing everything come together for the first time gives the entire project incredible energy. We have built a solid foundation for what will be a long journey, defined by our relentless drive to improve.”
Team principal Jonathan Wheatley added: “This successful fire-up is a critical milestone that validates the quality of the work and collaboration across all departments.
“It energises the entire team and provides a clear focus as we prepare for the next phases of development, including the moment we first bring the car to track.
“This achievement brings our first race in Melbourne into sharp focus, and we will build on this foundation as one united team.”
Audi will launch the R26 on 20 January in Berlin, Germany.
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