Audi Completes First Laps of All-New Formula 1 Project at Circuit de Catalunya
Audi has successfully completed the first laps of its all-new Formula 1 project at Spain’s Circuit de Catalunya, marking a significant milestone in the company’s foray into the world of F1. The German automaker completed its takeover of the Sauber project coming into 2026 and is racing this year as a fully-fledged manufacturer team, meaning it will build its own car and engines.
Drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto both drove laps of the new car on Friday at the circuit as Audi utilized one of the two 100km filming days allocated to every team under the regulations. The Barcelona circuit will host an unofficial week of testing, arranged by the 11 teams, at the end of January, before F1’s two official preseason tests in Bahrain in February.
Audi’s F1 Debut
Despite a long and storied history in motor racing, which includes 13 Le Mans 24 Hours triumphs and four World Rally Championships, 2026 is Audi’s first foray into Formula 1 in any capacity since the championship started in 1950. The company inherited Sauber’s Swiss headquarters in Hinwil, which will continue to operate as its car-building hub, while its engine programme is located out of a facility in Neuberg an der Donau, Germany.
Audi’s F1 team is led by former Red Bull sporting director Jonathan Wheatley, while ex-Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto is CEO of the wider project. Audi is one of two new engine projects on the grid this season — Red Bull is building its own engines this year in conjunction with Ford — and one of two new teams, with American outfit Cadillac also set to debut, albeit as a brand new entity built from the ground up.
According to a tweet by RobertoF1, the first 2026 Audi monoposto was spotted at the Montmelo circuit: La prima monoposto 2026 e’ Audi che sta girando al Montmelo’. #F1 #AudiF1 #ShakeDown
What’s Next for Audi in F1?
As Audi continues to develop its F1 project, the team will participate in the unofficial testing week at the Circuit de Catalunya, followed by the two official preseason tests in Bahrain. With a strong leadership team and a wealth of experience in motor racing, Audi is poised to make a significant impact in the world of F1. As the 2026 season approaches, fans and enthusiasts will be eagerly watching the team’s progress and waiting to see how they will perform on the track.
For more information on Audi’s F1 project and the latest news from the world of Formula 1, be sure to check out reputable sources such as Formula1.com and Autosport.com. With their expert analysis and up-to-date coverage, you’ll be able to stay ahead of the curve and get the inside scoop on all things F1.
