Full Breakdown
Audi Revolut F1 Team Prepares for 2026 Season with Successful Debut
1/10/2026, 5:58:59 AM
Audi's First Track Run and Fire-Up Milestone
The Audi Revolut F1 Team has marked a significant milestone in its preparations for the 2026 Formula 1 season by conducting its first track run at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. This event follows Audi's transition from Kick Sauber to a fully-fledged works team, with drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto participating in the filming day. This initial outing is a crucial step as the team gears up for its inaugural season.
In conjunction with the track run, Audi successfully completed a fire-up of its new F1 car, a critical phase in any Formula 1 program. This event validates years of development and confirms the integration of the car's core components. The fire-up represents a collaborative effort among various divisions, including the powertrain team in Neuburg, Germany, and the chassis team in Hinwil, Switzerland, as well as the new Technical Centre in Bicester, UK.
Official Statements on the Fire-Up
Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG, emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating, “For Audi, entering Formula 1 is a key part of our brand’s ongoing renewal. This milestone is a clear demonstration of our ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ ambition.” He noted that the project fosters pride and enthusiasm within the organization.
Mattia Binotto, Head of the Audi F1 Project, described the fire-up as a “new beginning” and a result of the collective ambition of the teams involved. Jonathan Wheatley, Team Principal of the Audi Revolut F1 Team, highlighted the fire-up as a validation of the team's collaborative efforts, energizing the team as they prepare for future developments.
Upcoming Milestones and Events
Following the successful fire-up and track run, the Audi Revolut F1 Team is set to continue its preparations for the 2026 season. The next major milestone will be the global launch event in Berlin on January 20, 2026, where the team will unveil its full race livery and on-track identity. This event will be followed by the first collective test session in Barcelona at the end of January.
Additionally, the team plans to launch a new Content Hub on the same day as the Berlin event, which will serve as a central repository for exclusive content, including news and updates throughout the race weekends.
Conclusion
The Audi Revolut F1 Team's successful debut track run and fire-up mark significant steps in its journey toward the 2026 Formula 1 season. With key milestones approaching, the team is poised to establish its presence in the competitive landscape of Formula 1 racing.
