The first launch of the new power unit in Audi’s 2026 chassis was a milestone that gave the team “incredible energy”, said F1 project director Mattia Binotto.
The former Sauber team will be taken over by Audi as a full constructor from this season, marking the entry of a completely new power unit supplier into F1. Audi’s project has been ongoing for many years, but the power unit and chassis combination was successfully started for the first time in late December.
“Excitement is always a special moment, but this one marks a new beginning,” Binotto said. “This is a tangible result of our collective ambition and the dedicated efforts of the Neuburg and Hinwil teams. Seeing everything come together for the first time gives the whole project incredible energy. We have built a solid foundation for a long journey defined by a constant drive for improvement.”
The first Audi cars are expected to take to the track alongside the rest of the grid during a private shakedown in Barcelona later this month, before official pre-season testing begins in Bahrain in February.
“The success of this activation is an important milestone that demonstrates the quality of work and collaboration across all departments,” said team principal Jonathan Wheatley. “This will energize the entire team and give us a clear focus as we prepare for the next stages of development, including the moment we first take the car to the track. This achievement focuses on our first race in Melbourne and we will continue to build on this foundation as one cohesive team.”
The wider F1 project is regularly supported by Audi CEO Gernot Dorner, who sees the team’s future entry as a focus for the entire company.
“For Audi, entering F1 is an important part of the brand’s continued renewal,” Dorner said. “This milestone is a clear demonstration of our ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ ambition. It is the result of seamless teamwork and the constant pursuit of excellence, and will serve as a guiding principle for the entire Audi organization.”
“This project is a catalyst for change and fosters pride, identity and enthusiasm. This enthusiasm truly brings to life the hard work of the Hinwil, Neuburg and Bicester teams and marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Audi’s motorsport history.”
Audi will officially start its 2026 season with full race livery in Berlin on January 20th, six days before the start of the shakedown in Barcelona.
