Audi’s first launch of its new power unit in the 2026 chassis was a milestone that gave the team “incredible energy”, according to Mattia Binotto, head of the Formula 1 project.
The former Sauber team has been taken over by Audi as a full constructor from next season, marking the arrival of a brand new power source supplier in F1. Audi’s project has been running for a number of years, but the combination of power source and chassis was successfully launched for the first time at the end of December.
“A gunfight is always a special moment, but this marks a new beginning,” Binotto said. “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 laid a solid foundation for what will be a long journey, defined by our relentless drive to improve.”
The first Audi car will hit the track along with the rest of the grid in a private shakedown in Barcelona at the end of this month, before pre-season testing officially begins in Bahrain in February.
“This successful start is a crucial milestone that validates the quality of work and collaboration between all departments,” said team principal Jonathan Wheatley. “It energizes the whole team and provides a clear focus as we prepare for the next phases of development, including when we take the car to the track for the first time. This achievement brings our first race in Melbourne into sharp focus, and we will build on this foundation as one united team.”
The wider F1 project has been regularly supported by Audi CEO Gernot Dollner, who sees the team’s upcoming participation as a focal point for the company as a whole.
“For Audi, participation in Formula 1 is an important part of the continuous renewal of our brand,” said Dollner. “This milestone is a clear demonstration of our ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ ambition. It is the result of seamless teamwork and a relentless pursuit of excellence that will serve as a leading example for the entire Audi organization.
“This project is a catalyst for change and promotes pride, identity and enthusiasm. With the start-up, the hard work of the teams in Hinwil, Neuburg and Bicester now really comes to life, marking the start of an exciting new chapter in Audi’s motorsport history.”
Audi will officially launch the 2026 season – including the full racing livery – on January 20 in Berlin, six days before the start of the shakedown in Barcelona.
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