Intro
Audi has shown a new concept livery for its first Formula 1 car. The unveiling took place in Munich. It is the R26 Concept, a preview of the look of the car that will appear on the grid in 2026.
What exactly was presented?
The concept displays a two-part colour scheme. The front follows the recently introduced Concept C with an all-titanium look. The rear is finished in carbon black with accents in a new Audi red hue. The red colour is used selectively, including for the famous Audi rings.
Historical reference
The design references Audi's racing past. Part of the inspiration comes from the Auto Union Type C. Those cars were important in the brand's pre-history.
Planning and test programme
Audi and the former Sauber team have a tight schedule. The team name officially changes on 1 January. The real R26 will be presented later that month.
The first runs will take place shortly afterwards. The car first runs behind closed doors during a joint test in Barcelona. This will be followed by official pre-season tests in front of the public.
- Official rebranding: 1 January
- Launch real R26: later in January
- First on-track runs: private collective test in Barcelona
- Colour scheme: titanium front, carbon black rear, selective Audi red
Brand guide and sponsors
The concept presentation focused on Audi itself. No logos of the expected partners were visible. Names such as Revolut, bp and Adidas were missing. References to the Qatar Investment Authority were also missing. This suggests that Audi wants to put the brand identity at the centre first.
Why this matters
Audi wants to make a strong visual impression. Massimo Frascella, Chief Creative Officer, said the goal is to have the most striking car on the grid. Off the track, Audi also wants to be the boldest brand.
According to CEO Gernot Döllner, design is a core part of Audi's DNA. The Concept C already gave a glimpse of its future design style. The Formula 1 car will be the second concrete example of that new philosophy.
Lock
The R26 Concept highlights Audi's commitment to linking the F1 approach to its broader brand strategy. The focus is on recognisability and design. The next few months will show how that translates to the real racing car and the racing wheel on the track.
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