P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The early shakedown of Audi’s F1 R26 challenger sparked much intrigue, but unbeknowingly, an increased scrutiny on how its interpreted the new rulebook.
The early shakedown of Audi’s Formula 1 R26 challenger sparked intrigue and raised questions about its interpretation of the new rulebook.
A private test at the Circuit de-Barcelona Catalunya marked the German squad’s first F1 venture, with a black R26 undergoing testing with Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto driving.
Speculation and amateur footage tried to capture glimpses of the car, but a circulating image purported to show the R26 cornering in Spain was debunked as AI-generated.
Notable features of the R26 include a possible return of high rake designs and pushrod suspension, harking back to earlier eras of F1.
Teams like Red Bull and Ferrari may opt for pushrod suspensions on their 2026 cars, with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency and weight reduction.
