Audi fires up its first F1 engine ever

Audi has fired up its first Formula 1 powertrain ever, ahead of the brand’s debut in the 2026 world championship.

Audi has taken over the Sauber outfit it fully acquired in 2024 and is competing in F1 for the first time in history this season.

While the Sauber cars had been powered by Ferrari since 1997 – except for the team’s BMW era from 2006 to 2009 – Audi is joining the series with its own power unit.

The timing makes sense as F1 has new engine regulations from this year onwards, with a greater emphasis on electric power, with Audi hoping to capitalise on its experience with hybrid and electric powertrains in WEC, Formula E and rally-raid.

The squad announced on Wednesday that, for the first time, it fired up its new engine in its 2026 F1 chassis. This occurred on 19 December at the outfit’s Hinwil base – one of three factories Audi leads its F1 effort from, alongside its powertrain division in Neuberg, Germany, and its Technical Centre in Bicester, UK.

“A fire-up is always a special moment, but this one marks a new beginning,” Mattia Binotto, head of the Audi F1 project, commented. “It is the tangible result of our collective ambition and the dedicated work of our teams in Neuburg and Hinwil.

Audi F1 Team RS26 concept livery

Photo by: Audi Sport

“Seeing everything come together for the first time gives the entire project incredible energy. We have built a solid foundation for what will be a long journey, defined by our relentless drive to improve.”

Team principal Jonathan Wheatley added: “This successful fire-up is a critical milestone that validates the quality of the work and collaboration across all departments. It energises the entire team and provides a clear focus as we prepare for the next phases of development, including the moment we first bring the car to track.

“This achievement brings our first race in Melbourne into sharp focus, and we will build on this foundation as one united team.”

Before the Australian Grand Prix, Audi will host its season launch in Berlin on 20 January and partake in pre-season testing at Barcelona from 26-30 January and in Bahrain from 11-13 February and 18-20 February.