### Audi's Historic Debut: The First 2026 F1 Car Takes to the Track On January 9, 2026, Audi made a significant mark in Formula 1 history by becoming the first team to run a 2026-spec car, the R26, during a shakedown at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. This event marks a pivotal moment for Audi as they transition from the Sauber team to their own identity in F1. The shakedown was conducted as part of a filming day, allowing drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto to familiarize themselves with the new car ahead of the upcoming season. The successful shakedown not only showcases Audi's engineering capabilities but also sets the stage for their competitive debut in the 2026 season, which begins with the Australian Grand Prix in March [https://www.planetf1.com/news/audi-f1-2026-shakedown-barcelona]. ### Breakdown of Audi's 2026 F1 Car Shakedown 1. **Event Overview** - Audi completed its first shakedown of the R26 on January 9, 2026, at Barcelona. - This event is a crucial milestone for Audi as they prepare for their inaugural season in Formula 1 [https://www.the-race.com/formula-1/audi-completes-shakedown-2026-f1-car-at-barcelona]. 2. **Driver Participation** - Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto shared driving duties during the shakedown, marking their first experience with the new car [https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/audi-shares-first-sharper-glimpse-of-2026-challenger-on-social-media]. 3. **Technical Aspects** - The R26 is designed to comply with the new regulations set for the 2026 season, which includes significant changes in power unit specifications and aerodynamics [https://speedcafe.com/f1-news-2026-audi-track-debut-first-team-barcelona-new-car-regulations-first-look-testing]. 4. **Future Implications** - The successful shakedown positions Audi favorably ahead of the first pre-season test scheduled for January 26, 2026, and the official start of the season [https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12040/13492464/audi-become-first-team-to-run-2026-f1-car-as-new-team-hold-filming-day-in-barcelona-ahead-of-testing]. ### Evidence Supporting Audi's Milestone Achievement - **Successful Shakedown**: Audi's R26 completed its first laps on track, confirming the car's operational readiness [https://www.crash.net/f1/news/1088380/1/footage-shows-audis-first-ever-f1-car-track-barcelona]. - **Driver Feedback**: Both Hulkenberg and Bortoleto expressed excitement about the car's performance during the shakedown, indicating a positive initial response [https://www.planetf1.com/news/audi-f1-2026-shakedown-nico-hulkenberg-gabriel-bortoleto-reaction]. - **Visual Documentation**: Official images and footage from the shakedown have been released, showcasing the R26's design and features [https://racingnews365.com/audi-release-first-official-images-of-2026-f1-car-shakedown]. ### Conclusion: Audi's Path Forward in Formula 1 In summary, Audi's successful shakedown of the R26 marks a **historic milestone** for the team as they prepare for their debut in the 2026 Formula 1 season. The event not only highlights their engineering prowess but also sets a competitive tone for the upcoming races. 1. **Historic Debut**: Audi is the first team to run a 2026-spec car, establishing a new benchmark in F1 [https://www.gpblog.com/en/news/first-2026-f1-car-spotted-on-track-in-barcelona-as-audi-begins-shakedown]. 2. **Driver Engagement**: The involvement of experienced drivers like Hulkenberg and Bortoleto is crucial for the team's development [https://www.planetf1.com/news/audi-f1-2026-shakedown-nico-hulkenberg-gabriel-bortoleto-reaction]. 3. **Future Readiness**: With the first pre-season test approaching, Audi is well-positioned to make a strong impression in their inaugural season [https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12040/13492464/audi-become-first-team-to-run-2026-f1-car-as-new-team-hold-filming-day-in-barcelona-ahead-of-testing]. This strategic entry into Formula 1 not only enhances Audi's brand visibility but also demonstrates their commitment to competing at the highest level of motorsport.