Audi reveals concept for 2026, emphasizing driver camaraderie.

      "We aspire to be the boldest brand off the racetrack."

      Audi has unveiled an eye-catching R26 concept car that previews its 2026 Formula 1 design, showcasing it at an event in Munich. Present at the launch were Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, alongside Audi CEO Gernot Dollner, F1 project leader Mattia Binotto, and team principal Jonathan Wheatley, who revealed the metallic silver and neon red show car—the first complete visual representation of Audi's upcoming entry.

      The front section showcases brushed metallic tones that transition sharply into a black and neon red rear. The new "Audi Red," a vibrant fluorescent hue, will be a key identifier for the team. "The R26 Concept offers a clear glimpse of the color scheme and design of our first Formula 1 race car, which will be revealed in January 2026," stated the brand.

      Audi's designers informed Auto Motor und Sport that the neon red accents will create a distinct signature. Chief creative officer Massimo Frascella remarked, "We aim to have the most eye-catching car on the grid. Our goal is to be the boldest brand off the track." Binotto added, "Mistakes will occur, but it's the learning process that fuels transformation." Dollner expressed, "For the next two years, we will be challengers. Starting in 2028, we plan to be competitive, and by 2030, we want to contend for the title. The timing for entering Formula 1 has never been better due to this rule change."

      The event also emphasized the camaraderie between Audi's confirmed 2026 driver pair—Hulkenberg, 38, and Bortoleto, 21—who are already teammates at Sauber and were described by Speed Week as having "an authentic and unusual friendship" within the contemporary F1 paddock. "I can learn a lot from Nico," Bortoleto said. "He is always available to listen to me." After the Brazilian's alarming high-speed crash at Interlagos, Hulkenberg quickly reassured him, stating, "Don’t worry, incidents like that happen only once every 20 years. You will experience both good and bad moments, and they only make you stronger."

      Hulkenberg praised the rookie, saying, "Gabi is one of the most talented newcomers I've seen in a long time. He drives consistently—like a printer that never runs out of ink." Team principal Wheatley noted that the bond between them developed organically. "You can’t compel friendships. Nico and Gabi built their relationship on trust from the start. Nico takes genuine pleasure in assisting him. A true friendship has blossomed."