Audi makes its return to Formula 1 in 2026, and the Barcelona shakedown has proven useful not only for gathering feedback on the R26 but also for other critical aspects of team operations. The German manufacturer returned to the track after the filming day conducted in early January. While resolving some initial issues with the R26 was a key focus, the team also concentrated on familiarizing itself with all operational procedures on the track.
Mattia Binotto highlighted the team’s excitement after taking the 2026 car onto the circuit for the first time. He described the moment as a thrilling experience for everyone involved, acknowledging that while there is still much to learn, Audi leaves Barcelona with a solid understanding of the new car, the power unit, and how the two interact on track.
Driving duties for the R26 will be shared between Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. The team opted to pair the experience of the seasoned German driver with the raw talent of the young Brazilian. While the ultimate goal is a Formula 1 World Championship, the project is still in its early stages.
The work done by Audi during the Barcelona tests
Jonathan Wheatley, Team Principal of Audi Revolut F1 Team, reflected on the initial laps completed by the R26. Despite encountering some early issues, the team obtained valuable data that went beyond the car’s performance alone. The sessions allowed the squad to adopt a first hands-on approach to track operations, ensuring that they are fully prepared for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix.
Wheatley, formerly with Red Bull, stated that after three intensive days of activity in Barcelona, he was satisfied with the progress the team had made. He emphasized that the shakedown was not solely about running the car but also about testing the team’s operations as a whole. Integrating the setup engineers and powertrain specialists into a cohesive unit was a central focus. Everything, from reliability to logistics, operational procedures to garage equipment, was scrutinized to ensure smooth future operations.
Both Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hulkenberg experienced on-track stops due to technical issues. Nevertheless, the team was able to overcome these initial growing pains. The data collected during these sessions will allow Audi to approach Bahrain with a much clearer direction for development and strategy.
Wheatley added that both drivers spent significant time behind the wheel of the R26, and their feedback will be invaluable in guiding the car’s future development. Although there were minor early difficulties, the way the team collaborated to find solutions was impressive and highlighted the squad’s ability to work together effectively under challenging circumstances.
Audi’s first official outing at the Barcelona shakedown marks a critical transition from a theoretical project to a functional racing organization, emphasizing that the R26’s success depends as much on operational cohesion as it does on horsepower. By putting every element from pit equipment to personnel integration “under scrutiny,” Jonathan Wheatley and Mattia Binotto are laying the groundwork for a team that can withstand the logistical pressures of a record-breaking F1 season. Ultimately, while the on-track stoppages for Hulkenberg and Bortoleto highlighted the steep learning curve ahead, the team’s ability to resolve these issues in real-time suggests that the “Four Rings” are rapidly maturing into a professional outfit ready to face the desert heat of Bahrain.
Audi therefore leaves Spain with a reliable baseline of data and a more integrated trackside team, moving one step closer to their highly anticipated Grand Prix debut in Melbourne.
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