P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Audi will be going up against the history of Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda in 2026 with its new project.
Audi chief Mattia Binotto believes that their power unit can reach the success levels of Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda, but acknowledges the necessity of enduring failures.
Audi and Red Bull Powertrains have entered the F1 grid as new power unit manufacturers in 2026, with Audi forming a technical alliance with Ford.
Despite gremlins affecting runs for Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto during the pre-season shakedown test in Barcelona, Audi managed to log a total of 240 laps.
Binotto has set the team’s sights on challenging for world titles by 2030 and becoming a leading power unit supplier, aiming to surpass the dominance of Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda.
Though facing formidable competition from these three established manufacturers, Binotto remains optimistic about Audi’s prospects, emphasizing the importance of continuous progress and a relentless commitment to improvement.
