Nico Hulkenberg Audi F1 test drew fresh attention on January 9, as Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto became the first to pilot Audi’s new car during a landmark shakedown at the Barcelona circuit. Taking place weeks ahead of the scheduled pre-season events, this marked Audi’s inaugural track session as Formula 1’s newest team for 2026, signaling a determined start to their campaign.
As part of a special filming day, Audi divided just over 40 laps between veteran driver Nico Hulkenberg and rising talent Gabriel Bortoleto. The early test in Spain was permitted before the official pre-season testing window, and both drivers quickly took to social media, sharing their sentiments following this crucial first session in the car. Hulkenberg, an established force in Formula 1, highlighted the timeliness and collaboration behind the project.
“9th of January 2026 & the rings are rolling. Fantastic effort,” wrote Hulkenberg, via Instagram.
Bortoleto expressed his excitement about joining the Audi effort, marking this as the start of a pivotal chapter in his career with the team.
“So happy to finally start this journey! First day at the track with Audi,” wrote Bortoleto.
Official Messages Highlight a Milestone in Audi’s F1 Journey
Audi F1’s official social media update celebrated the occasion, underscoring the achievement and providing behind-the-scenes glimpses of key figures present on the day. Images included drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, alongside important members such as team principal Jonathan Wheatley and project head Mattia Binotto. The team’s car, known as the R26, was photographed during its first live running at the circuit.
“We’re officially rolling. A milestone moment in Barcelona as the R26 hit a racetrack for the very first time. First day. First laps. First chance for our drivers to experience the car. The road ahead starts right here,” read the caption.
This private demonstration comes as Audi takes full control over its racing outfit after acquiring the Sauber Group in 2024. The 2025 season saw the organization overseeing a substantial transition away from the Sauber identity, culminating with the official name and branding switch to Audi from 2026 onward. Alongside the rebrand, Audi will manufacture its own F1 power units at its Neuburg facility in Germany, in alignment with new Formula 1 regulations.
Building for the Future: Facilities and Next Steps
For the next season, Audi has opted to maintain racing operations out of Sauber’s well-established base in Hinwil, Switzerland, where the R26 chassis was also developed. To support innovation and technical growth, a new technology office has been set up in Bicester, England. These choices reflect the German manufacturer’s commitment to blending tradition with forward-looking strategies as it establishes itself in the championship.
Audi is positioned to reveal its completed 2026 car and livery in Berlin on January 20, just days before the full pre-season test set for January 26-30 returns to Barcelona. This build-up leads to the first Grand Prix of the season, which will take place on March 6 at the Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne, Australia, where Audi will officially debut as a team in Formula 1’s competitive arena.
The reaction from both drivers and the broader team highlights a collective anticipation and hopefulness as preparation intensifies for 2026. With names like Jonathan Wheatley steering the project and figures such as Mattia Binotto contributing strategic direction, Audi’s motorsport ambitions have entered a vital phase, seeking both performance and progress as new regulations reshape the grid.
