Audi has taken a major step in its Formula 1 journey by becoming the first team to run a 2026‑spec F1 car on a racetrack — a milestone moment that signals its readiness for the upcoming season.
Historic First Outing at Circuit de Barcelona‑Catalunya
On 9 January 2026, Audi staged a filming day at the Circuit de Barcelona‑Catalunya, where its brand‑new challenger — designated the R26 — completed its first laps on track. This outing marked the first time a car built under the all‑new 2026 technical regulations was run publicly.
Under the filming‑day rules, teams are limited to 200 kilometres on track, approximately 42 laps at Barcelona, and must use Pirelli demonstration tyres rather than full competition rubber. The exercise isn’t about lap times — instead, it allows the team to validate major systems, confirm assembly integrity, and ensure the new power unit and chassis work together as intended.
Drivers Behind the Wheel
Both Audi drivers — Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto — took turns at the wheel during the filming day. Each driver completed portions of the on‑track running to share initial impressions and help the engineers gather early data from real conditions.
Nico Hülkenberg, the experienced German racer, remarked on social media:
“9th of January 2026 and the rings are rolling — fantastic effort.”
Rookie Gabriel Bortoleto was similarly enthusiastic about finally taking the wheel and experiencing the R26 in motion.
What This Means for Audi’s F1 Project
This filming day represents a major milestone in Audi’s Formula 1 programme:
It’s the first time the German manufacturer’s own Formula 1 car — built to the new 2026 regulations — has seen competitive‑spec asphalt.
The R26 combines Audi’s in‑house power unit and chassis efforts following the takeover and rebranding of the former Sauber team into the Audi Revolut F1 Team.
The outing allowed engineers to check fundamental systems such as the power unit integration, cooling, transmission responses and basic drivability.
Although full performance testing will take place later, this initial run confirms that Audi’s preparations are on track ahead of the first official pre‑season test at the same Barcelona venue later this month.
What’s Next?
Audi has scheduled several key events leading up to the 2026 season:
Official launch event for the R26 in Berlin on 20 January 2026.
Pre‑season tests at Barcelona from 26–30 January, followed by tests in Bahrain ahead of the season opener in March.
A New Era Begins
The 2026 Formula 1 season introduces new technical regulations and fresh opportunities for teams — and Audi’s early shakedown shows the marque is serious about competing from the outset. The R26’s first laps are an exciting sign that Audi could be a major player as the sport enters a bold new era
