The lubricant company is a key technical partner of the Audi Formula 1 program

In January Audi officially unveiled its first-ever Formula 1 car at a dramatic launch event in Berlin, marking a major milestone ahead of the German manufacturer’s debut in the 2026 FIA Formula One World Championship – which will kick off at the Australian Grand Prix in March.
Audi first confirmed its entry into F1 in August 2022 and will make its competitive debut in Melbourne with a car powered by its inaugural V6 turbo hybrid Power Unit.
Technical partner Castrol explains it has worked alongside Audi to develop bespoke lubricants for the new V6 turbo engine, as well as to engineer advanced EV fluids for the electric motor and battery system integral to the 2026 power unit regulations.
It says this collaboration ensures optimal thermal management, efficiency, and durability – critical performance differentiators under the new technical regulations enforced from 2026.
The reveal of the new car took place at the historic “Kraftwerk Berlin” power station, where Audi Chief Executive Officer, Gernot Döllner, appeared alongside Head of the Audi F1 Project, Mattia Binotto; Team Principal Jonathan Wheatley, and drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto.
The team presented the R26, showcasing a bold titanium, carbon fibre and lava red livery previously teased in Munich last year.
Binotto emphasised the advantage of entering F1 as a full works team with integrated development across Neuburg, Hinwil and Bicester. Wheatley, joining after nearly two decades at Red Bull, highlighted the group’s ambition to embed a “championship DNA” from day one.
Hülkenberg and Bortoleto will race together for a second season, the German veteran praising Audi’s serious long term intent, while Bortoleto described representing the Four Rings as a “dream come true” and a unique opportunity to help shape the team’s future from the very beginning.
Earlier in January, Audi became the first team to run a 2026 spec car during a filming day in Barcelona. Following the Berlin launch, the squad will return there for Shakedown Week, where all 11 teams will conduct three days of running.

To learn more about Audi’s F1 program, visit www.audif1.com