Audi Chief Technical Officer Mattia Binotto insists that, despite ambitious long-term objectives, the German manufacturer must be pragmatic about their chances in 2026.
In many ways, the Hinwil-based team’s resurgence last year was a pleasant surprise. Their pace after bringing upgrades to Spain meant that points were regularly on the table – with Hulkenberg later clinching the team’s first podium in over a decade in Silverstone.
Their mid-season progression was a positive indicator about the capabilities of the team’s technical department.
Still, Audi recognise that developing a new engine is an uphill battle. This is why Binotto anticipates his personnel being on the backfoot when the season begins.
Audi aware of the challenge ahead
Mattia Binotto knows better than most how to operate an effective F1 engine department. The Italian was at the centre of Ferrari’s dominance in the early 2000s, overseeing a power unit that boasted excellent performance and reliability.
This is why Binotto is entrusted with overseeing the Neurburg factory’s trajectory.
Audi have made no mistake of their intentions in Formula 1. The German brand aspires to fight for titles by 2030, and is more than willing to get involved in the political aspect of the sport.
Before even making their official debut, Audi have made their feelings clear regarding the controversial Mercedes engine.
Audi are understood to have been more vocal than any other manufacturer in calling for the FIA to take action on the compression ratio solution being developed at Mercedes and Red Bull.
Binotto himself has argued that this trick could be worth a significant amount of lap-time. Consequently, this topic is set to be central in today’s meeting between the FIA and the teams.
Binotto looks to manage expectations
Focusing specifically on Audi’s progression, they were the first team to get kilometres under their belt with their 2026 car and power unit.
They completed a successful 200km shakedown last week in Barcelona, albeit with a very basic specification. Still, the Audi R26 is understood to have run smoothly and avoided any complications.
Particularly on the engine side, this is a top priority. As Mattia Binotto has emphasised that reliability is the first step for these new generation of cars.
From this foundation, Audi have set their five-year plan to fight for titles by 2030. Of course, the road to achieve this target will be bumpy.
Speaking at the team’s official 2026 launch in Berlin, Binotto made sure to outline realistic goals:
“The five years is what we set as an objective, because there is much that we need to build,” he explained.
“It’s not only the car on track – that is the final product of a big organisation. Infrastructure, tools, methodology, the organisation – we need to ramp up skills. There is still much that is required.
“But I think we are aware of it and that’s part of our daily task… We still want to do well on track – the best we can.
“But we that know we are competing against strong competitors, settled-down organisations. And no doubt [those] who were stronger before will stay stronger as well in 2026. So our season 2026 can be very bumpy.”
Main photo: Audi F1 Team Content Hub
