Audi unveiled the car that will make its official F1 debut in 2026 in Munich this Wednesday (12/11). The German team unveiled a silver, black and orange livery with drivers Gabriel Bortleto and Nico Hulkenberg set to take part in the manufacturer’s first season in this category.
Check out the car concept:
The model was unveiled to the public for the first time at an event attended by brand managers and guests. The car marks the beginning of a new phase for the company, which will take over the name of the Audi F1 team and decisively enter the championship after the full acquisition of Sauber.
The acquisition was completed in August 2024, giving the automaker 100% control of Sauber Holding AG. Technical and strategic direction will continue to be taken by former McLaren team principal Andreas Seidl, who will continue as CEO of the new team.
history
Before becoming Audi’s official team, Sauber followed a trajectory marked by several name and identity changes. Founded by Peter Sauber, it debuted in F1 in 1993 and was sold to BMW in 2005, changing its name to BMW Sauber F1 Team. After leaving the manufacturer in 2009, Peter Sauber took back control and the team returned to competing solely as the Sauber F1 Team.
In 2018, the team entered into a commercial partnership with Alfa Romeo and adopted the name Alfa Romeo Racing. This is a naming rights agreement that does not involve the sale of stock. The contract ended in 2023 and the team returned to the grid in 2024 as stakes F1 team Kick Sauber with a new livery and visual identity. In 2025, Audi will complete the acquisition of 100% of Sauber Holding AG, preparing to participate as the Audi F1 team in 2026.
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