The German automaker, which expressed its plan to join Formula 1 in 2022, will replace Kick Sauber on the grid for the 2026 season. Audi has collaborated with Sauber to enhance facilities in Germany, Switzerland, and the UK in preparation for its debut, which will kick off at the 2026 season opener in Australia.
The team name verifies Revolut as the title partner, following the partnership announcement in July. In a company statement, Audi noted that Revolut “shares the ambition for innovation, performance, and connecting with a diverse, international audience” and described the collaboration as “a powerful alliance aimed at challenging conventions and shaping new forms of fan engagement.”
The partnership includes app-based advantages for Revolut users, fan engagement activities, race access, the integration of Revolut Pay into Audi’s online store, and the utilization of Revolut’s business services for the team’s financial operations under the Formula 1 cost cap.
Audi R26 Concept; bird’s-eye view
Audi has confirmed that Jonathan Wheatley will remain as Team Principal, with Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto forming the driver lineup. Mattia Binotto, formerly of Ferrari, is in charge of the Audi F1 project.
Wheatley commented, “The Audi Revolut F1 Team name symbolizes the combined strength of our teams in Germany, the UK, and Switzerland, along with our partners. It serves as a rallying point under which we come together as we progress toward 2026.”
The launch event in Berlin on January 20, 2026, will showcase the team’s complete 2026 race livery during an immersive, invitation-only event centered on the brand values of “clarity, technical intelligence, and emotion.”
Audi R26 Concept; side view
A public event will follow on January 21, allowing fans to participate. Audi previously revealed an early concept livery in November, featuring titanium, carbon black, and Audi red.
Binotto stated that the launch “will be the first moment we stand together as a collective and invite our global fan base to join us” as the team evolves, “driven by a culture of precision and relentless ambition.”
In conjunction with the rebrand, Sauber Motorsport AG will be renamed Audi Motorsport AG, and the Technology Centre in Bicester will become the Audi Motorsport Technology Centre UK. Audi confirmed it will retain the names Sauber Holding AG and Sauber Technologies AG to honor Peter Sauber’s legacy.
Audi CEO Gernot Döllner (left) and Chief Creative Officer Massimo Frascella at the reveal event “Audi One” in Munich.
Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sauber Motorsport AG, remarked, “Unveiling the Audi Revolut F1 Team name and logo represents another significant milestone in our journey into the pinnacle of motorsport. Both provide our ambition with a clear identity, reflecting a strong vision and innovative spirit. We now look forward to Berlin in January, where we will officially present this exciting new chapter for the Audi brand to the world.”
First Published: Dec 16, 2025 10:44 AM IST
