With the official start of Formula 1 pre-season testing still some time away, Audi have already made headlines by becoming the first team to put an early version of their 2026 Formula 1 car on track. While most manufacturers are guarding their next-generation designs behind closed doors, Audi’s decision to run a prototype has offered rivals — and fans — an unexpected early glimpse into their technical direction for the new regulations.
The German manufacturer completed a limited filming and systems check at the Circuit de Catalunya, covering approximately 200 kilometres with Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto sharing driving duties. Although Audi are not scheduled to unveil their full 2026 Formula 1 car until January 20, the sound of the power unit and a series of unofficial images circulating online have already fuelled intense technical debate within the paddock.
No official footage has been released by the team, but a collection of photographs and low-resolution videos captured trackside have proven enough for engineers and analysts to start piecing together key elements of Audi’s concept. One particular aspect of the car has drawn attention — and could raise early concerns for Ferrari as the 2026 rules era approaches.
Ferrari made a bold structural choice by switching from a push-rod to a pull-rod front suspension layout, believing it would offer advantages under the revised aerodynamic and mechanical regulations. However, early signs suggest Audi may have chosen to move in the opposite direction, potentially exposing a philosophical split that could define the competitive order of the new era.
Audi appear to commit to push-rod front suspension for 2026
According to detailed analysis published by the Italian media, Audi’s prototype strongly indicates the use of a push-rod front suspension layout. The outlet examined multiple angles of the car taken during the filming day and highlighted the visible geometry of the front wishbones as a clear indicator of Audi’s chosen configuration.
While artificial intelligence-generated images and speculative renders have flooded social media since the test, the consistent positioning of suspension elements across genuine photographs has reinforced the belief that Audi have deliberately moved away from a pull-rod solution. Full confirmation is expected once pre-season testing begins in Barcelona later this month, when the cars will be visible in far greater detail.
Suspension architecture plays a critical role in airflow management around the front of the car, an area that will be heavily influenced by the 2026 regulations. The new rules aim to reduce dirty air and improve the ability of cars to follow closely, theoretically making overtaking easier and racing more competitive.
According to the technical interpretation from Formula Uno Analisi Tecnica, Audi’s push-rod design allows for a more efficient integration of mechanical components with airflow control. This approach could generate stronger aerodynamic outwash around the front wheels, a consequence that may partially counteract the FIA’s intentions to reduce turbulence in the wake of the car.
If that interpretation proves accurate, Audi may have identified a performance window that offers aerodynamic benefits without breaching the new regulations — something rival teams, including Ferrari, will be watching closely.
Ferrari face growing pressure amid engine and suspension uncertainty
The contrast between Audi’s push-rod solution and Ferrari’s pull-rod front suspension sets up an intriguing technical battle ahead of the 2026 season. Both concepts could theoretically succeed if integrated correctly with the overall aerodynamic platform, but the risk of committing to the wrong philosophy is significant in a major regulation reset.
Ferrari already find themselves under scrutiny due to ongoing concerns surrounding the new power unit regulations. The team are reportedly prepared to challenge a potential loophole that Mercedes and Red Bull may have exploited, particularly regarding combustion engine compression ratios. Should those rivals be allowed to proceed unchecked, Ferrari could once again begin a new rules cycle at a disadvantage.
Team principal Fred Vasseur is acutely aware of the stakes. Expectations inside Maranello remain extremely high following a disappointing 2025 campaign, especially with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc both demanding a car capable of fighting at the front of the grid. For Lewis Hamilton, the 2026 season represents a crucial opportunity to reset after a difficult first year with Ferrari, while Charles Leclerc continues to be viewed as a long-term championship contender waiting for the right machinery.
If Audi have already uncovered a more effective suspension philosophy or identified weaknesses in Ferrari’s development direction, the implications could be serious. A misstep at this stage of the regulation cycle can take years to correct, and history has shown how quickly early advantages can snowball in Formula 1.
As testing approaches, the spotlight will intensify on every design choice. Audi’s early running may prove nothing more than an exploratory exercise — but it could also be the first warning sign that Ferrari’s path toward 2026 is far more precarious than initially believed.
Jan 11, 2026Sofia Bianchi
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