Audi has conducted the first track outing for its Formula 1 car ahead of the team's debut season in 2026, staging a filming day at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. The German manufacturer has transitioned from the former Sauber outfit into a full works team, developing its own power unit in line with the sport's latest technical regulations. This marks a significant step in Audi's preparations for its inaugural Formula 1 campaign, becoming the first team to test the F1 car on track in 2026. Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto each took turns driving, with the filming day serving as another key milestone in Audi's journey toward its debut season.
Earlier this year, Audi finalized its complete takeover of Switzerland-based Sauber Group, a strategic move that also welcomed investment from Qatar's sovereign wealth fund. The newly formed Audi F1 outfit will be led by seasoned Formula 1 leaders Mattia Binotto and Jonathan Wheatley, both of whom will report directly to CEO Gernot Dollner. For its maiden campaign in 2026, the team has assembled a balanced driver lineup, pairing German veteran Nico Hulkenberg with rising Brazilian talent Gabriel Bortoleto, blending experience with youthful ambition.
On January 7, the team confirmed the successful first fire-up of their new Formula 1 challenger. It was also revealed last month that the outfit, set to compete as the Audi Revolut F1 Team, will stage its official launch event in Berlin on January 20, marking a key milestone in preparations for its debut season.
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The fire-up serves as an important checkpoint in Formula 1 development, confirming that the main components function together as intended. For Audi, it reflects close cooperation between its powertrain group in Neuburg, the chassis team in Hinwil, and the new Technical Centre in Bicester. With this milestone, the team now has a working foundation as preparations continue for the 2026 regulation changes. The successful integration of the unit highlights the steady progress being made and underlines the commitment behind Audi's Formula 1 program.
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