Audi is set to be the first team to roll out its 2026 machinery, with the German manufacturer preparing to give the RS26 its shakedown during a filming day in Barcelona.

While the rest of the grid will have to wait before heading out on track, Audi has chosen to get an early start, using tomorrow’s filming day to complete the first laps of its inaugural Formula 1 car.

The Barcelona circuit, which will also host pre-season testing later this month, has been selected as the backdrop for the milestone moment.

In line with FIA regulations, Audi’s running will be restricted to 200 kilometres and carried out on Pirelli demonstration tyres, rather than the rubber earmarked for competitive running in 2026. The RS26 will be formally unveiled later, with its official presentation set to take place on January 20 in Berlin.

Helmut Marko said that he will enjoy not having to fly to the other side of the world for the F1 season opener. He also explained that he is making switches at home to keep up with the sessions the best way possible.

The long-time Austrian advisor stepped down from the Milton Keynes outfit after Max Verstappen’s title loss in Abu Dhabi, later making clear to GPblog that the decision was taken on his own terms, despite early rumours suggesting otherwise.

As a result, Marko will be absent from the Red Bull pit wall in Australia for the first time in 20 years, bringing an era to a close — one defined by relentless success and a keen eye for talent, most notably the discovery and rise of Max Verstappen.