Audi on January 19, 2026 officially unveiled its first Formula 1 team kit since completing the takeover and rebranding of the Sauber team, marking a significant step in the German manufacturer’s preparation for its debut Formula 1 season in 2026. The kit, developed in partnership with adidas, will be worn by drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, as well as by engineers, mechanics and operational staff throughout the championship. The presentation took place ahead of pre-season testing, with Revolut confirmed as the team’s title partner. This is reported by The WP Times, citing Adidas.
Audi’s transition from Sauber to a factory Formula 1 entry
The unveiling of the team kit represents one of the most visible stages in Audi’s transition from a customer-based Formula 1 presence to a fully branded factory operation. Audi announced its intention to enter Formula 1 in August 2022, aligning its programme with the new FIA power unit regulations set to take effect from the 2026 season.
Following the acquisition of Sauber, Audi retained the Swiss team’s infrastructure in Hinwil while gradually replacing branding, partnerships and public-facing identity. By early 2026, the Audi Revolut Formula 1 Team name and visual elements are fully established, with the team kit acting as a confirmation that the rebranding process has reached its operational phase.
Design language and visual identity of the 2026 kit
The 2026 team kit adopts a restrained monochrome colour palette dominated by black and dark grey, complemented by subtle red accents. According to Audi, the design reflects the visual language of its road car range rather than following the brighter, high-contrast approach common in Formula 1 teamwear.
Drivers’ jerseys feature a collarless design with adidas’ three stripes positioned on the shoulders. Thin red lines are incorporated into sleeves and inner necklines, providing visual continuity with Audi’s performance branding without dominating the overall look.
Michael Batz, motorsport category general manager at adidas, said the collection was designed to balance performance requirements with brand consistency.
“This collection introduces Audi to the Formula 1 grid with a clear and precise identity. Every detail has been developed to support performance while maintaining a strong connection to the Audi brand,” Batz said.
Role-specific development across the team
Audi and adidas confirmed that the kit was developed with functional differentiation across team roles, rather than applying a single uniform to all personnel. The approach reflects the varying physical and environmental demands faced by drivers, mechanics and engineers during a race weekend.
The development priorities included:
- thermal management for drivers operating in high cockpit temperatures;
- durability and mobility for mechanics working under time pressure in pit lane conditions;
- comfort and insulation for engineers exposed to long working hours in garages and on pit walls;
- clear visual identification of personnel while maintaining a unified team identity.
Drivers will wear lightweight, stretchable jerseys designed to minimise heat retention and fabric movement. Mechanics’ apparel incorporates reinforced materials in high-wear areas and a darker colour scheme intended to reduce visible wear. Engineers and operational staff will wear fitted technical tees and insulated outerwear designed for prolonged use in variable weather conditions.
Key elements of the Audi F1 team kit
| Team role | Apparel focus | Functional purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Drivers | Collarless jerseys, light fabrics | Heat management, cockpit comfort |
| Mechanics | Reinforced uniforms | Durability, pit lane mobility |
| Engineers | Technical tees, insulated jackets | Comfort during extended operations |
| Footwear | ADIZERO EVO SL variants | Grip, flexibility, reduced fatigue |
The kit structure underlines Audi’s focus on operational efficiency alongside visual branding.
Footwear and technical specifications
Footwear for the 2026 season is based on a bespoke version of the adidas ADIZERO EVO SL shoe, produced in a red and grey colour palette aligned with the team kit. adidas stated that the footwear prioritises lightweight construction, grip on garage and pit lane surfaces, and flexibility during grid procedures.
Different specifications apply internally depending on role. Drivers’ footwear focuses on flexibility and comfort, while mechanics’ versions include additional reinforcement and non-slip soles in line with FIA safety standards for live pit stops.
Drivers’ comments on the new teamwear
Audi’s drivers highlighted both the symbolic and practical significance of the new kit.
“The first time representing two established brands together on the Formula 1 grid is a significant moment. Wearing the three stripes alongside the four rings reflects the preparation behind this project,” Nico Hulkenberg said.
Gabriel Bortoleto emphasised the performance aspect of the apparel.
“In a sport driven by constant development, having clothing designed around real performance needs matters. The fit and functionality are clearly tailored to what we require,” he said.
Where the Audi Formula 1 team kit will be sold in the UK
Audi confirmed that official team merchandise for the 2026 season will be available in the United Kingdom through a combination of online platforms and selected physical retail locations. The UK is considered a key market due to its central role in Formula 1 operations and fan engagement.
Official purchase channels include:
- the Audi Formula 1 Team online store;
- the official adidas UK online platform;
- selected adidas flagship stores authorised to carry Formula 1 teamwear.
All official items will include authentication tags and serial identifiers to distinguish licensed merchandise from unofficial replicas.
Availability in London
In London, Audi Formula 1 teamwear will be available through selected flagship retail locations operated by adidas, subject to stock availability and release schedules. These stores traditionally receive Formula 1 merchandise earlier due to their proximity to commercial and media hubs.
London-based fans can expect availability at:
- adidas flagship stores in central retail districts;
- pop-up retail activations during major Formula 1 promotional periods;
- authorised motorsport merchandise retailers operating in Greater London.
Audi advised customers to verify availability directly through official store listings and product authentication labels, as quantities may be limited during the initial release phase.
Commercial partnerships and branding strategy
The 2026 kit integrates branding from Audi’s principal Formula 1 partners. Revolut appears as the title partner across teamwear, while adidas branding is incorporated through established design elements rather than oversized logos.
Audi has repeatedly stated that its Formula 1 programme is structured as a long-term commitment. Apparel and merchandise play a central role in fan recognition, broadcast visibility and commercial engagement, particularly in markets such as the UK, where Formula 1 teams, suppliers and media are heavily concentrated.
What this means ahead of the 2026 season
The unveiling of the team kit confirms that Audi’s Formula 1 project has moved into its operational phase. For fans, the new apparel establishes a clear and recognisable identity ahead of the team’s first season under its own name. For team personnel, the kit reflects a shift toward role-specific equipment designed to support performance, safety and endurance during race weekends.
As the 2026 season approaches, the teamwear launch illustrates how Audi is aligning branding, functionality and commercial strategy as it prepares to join the Formula 1 grid.e season.
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