The launch frenzy continues with Mercedes, Ferrari, Alpine, Cadillac, Aston Martin, and McLaren all set to reveal their designs soon.
Formula 1’s 2026 launch season accelerated Tuesday as Audi prepared to unveil its first factory racing identity, marking a pivotal moment in the sport's shift toward new technical regulations.
The German manufacturer is scheduled to reveal its full race livery in Berlin, becoming the fourth team to showcase its visual direction for a season defined by smaller cars and a 50-50 power split between electric and internal combustion energy. Audi's entry follows the team's total acquisition of Sauber and the announcement of a title partnership with financial technology firm Revolut.
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The reveal comes amid a flurry of activity across the grid. On Monday, Haas debuted a white-and-red design that highlights a new title partnership with Toyota Gazoo Racing. That launch followed a joint event in Detroit on Jan. 15, where Red Bull and sister team Racing Bulls introduced their 2026 liveries alongside future power unit partner Ford.
"This is a crucial milestone that energises the entire project," said Jonathan Wheatley, team principal of the Audi Revolut F1 Team. "It makes our long-term ambition tangible for everyone involved."
The 2026 regulations represent the most significant technical overhaul in recent F1 history. The new chassis rules have enabled a shift in design aesthetics, with teams moving away from the "exposed carbon" look of previous years. Because the 2026 weight limits are more forgiving, engineers have more room for full-body paint and complex graphic designs.
Several teams are using the regulation change to pivot their branding. Red Bull’s "Heritage White" livery departs from its traditional matte blue to honour the Ford partnership. Similarly, Haas has integrated bold "GR" lettering on its engine cover to reflect its deepening ties with Toyota.
The launch calendar remains crowded through early February. Mercedes is set to release digital renders of its W17 on Thursday, followed by a double-reveal from Ferrari and Alpine on Friday. Ferrari is expected to conduct a physical shakedown of its new machine at its Fiorano test track.
The grid will be completed next month when Cadillac, the sport's 11th team, reveals its debut livery during the Super Bowl on Feb. 8. Aston Martin and McLaren are scheduled to hold their presentations the following day.
Upcoming Reveal Schedule
The grid is filling up fast. Here are the dates to watch over the next few weeks:
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Jan 20: Audi (Berlin) – The highly anticipated official factory debut.
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Jan 22: Mercedes – Digital image reveal of the W17.
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Jan 23: Ferrari & Alpine – Ferrari is expected to show a physical car at Fiorano.
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Feb 8: Cadillac – The "real" season livery will debut during the Super Bowl halftime show.
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Feb 9: Aston Martin & McLaren – The final reveals before full pre-season testing begins.
The first private testing session for the new cars begins Jan. 26 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, followed by public pre-season tests in Bahrain starting Feb. 11.
Published: 20 Jan 2026, 08:37 pm IST
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