The Race F1 Podcast Why Audi and Honda managed expectations at respective launch events
Jan 20, 2026
Valentin Khorounzhiy, a motorsport journalist, shares vibrant insights from Audi's Berlin launch, highlighting the festive atmosphere and the team's emphasis on managing expectations for 2026. Scott Mitchell-Malm, a technical reporter, provides an intriguing look at Honda’s RA626H engine reveal in Tokyo, noting their cautious approach to competitiveness and the impact of their fuel supplier switch. Both guests underline the importance of reliability and long-term goals as major themes in the teams' messaging this season.
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Bombast With Realism
- Audi's Berlin launch mixed heavy marketing bombast with messages of realism about 2026 competitiveness.
- Valentin Khorounzhiy noted the event aimed to show long-term commitment rather than promise instant success.
Play Down Expectations, Build Processes
- Audi downplayed immediate results and stressed process, preparation, and pragmatic step-by-step progress.
- Mattia Binotto and James Key signalled finishing reliably and midfield competitiveness as realistic short-term goals.
Compression Ratio Concern
- Teams fear a compression-ratio advantage could hand Mercedes and Red Bull an early edge in 2026.
- Audi publicly urged the FIA to resolve the issue but stopped short of threatening formal protest.