Audi to enter Formula 1

Audi, the prestigious German automobile manufacturer, is poised to make a grand entrance into the pinnacle of motorsport, Formula 1, in 2026. This move marks a significant milestone for Audi as it aims to blend sustainability, innovation, and high performance in the competitive arena of Formula 1 racing. To facilitate this ambitious endeavor, Audi has taken over the entire Sauber Group, signaling its commitment to becoming a formidable contender in the sport.

A new Team

At the helm of this massive project is Oliver Hoffmann, who has assumed overall responsibility for Audi's Formula 1 commitment. Hoffmann, now Chairman of the Boards of Directors of the Sauber Group, brings a wealth of experience and a strategic vision to guide the team through the complex transition and ensure Audi’s goals are met with precision and excellence.

Another key figure in this transformative journey is Andreas Seidl, appointed as the CEO of the Audi F1 Team. Seidl’s role is pivotal; he will oversee the implementation of the Audi F1 project and manage the team’s operations, making him the face of the future Audi Formula 1 team. Seidl’s expertise and leadership are expected to steer the team towards competitiveness and success in the highly demanding world of Formula 1.

In parallel, Gernot Döllner, the Audi CEO, will take over as Head of Development at AUDI AG. His leadership in this role is crucial for aligning Audi’s overall corporate strategy with the intricate technical demands of Formula 1, ensuring that the innovations developed for the racetrack can eventually benefit the broader consumer market.

Audi Formula Racing and Sauber Motorsport

The announcement of Audi’s full takeover of the Sauber Group was quickly followed by a significant driver signing. Nico Hülkenberg, a seasoned Formula 1 driver, has inked a multi-year contract with Sauber, positioning himself as the cornerstone of Audi's driver lineup. Hülkenberg is set to drive for Sauber in 2025, a year before Audi officially enters the fray, to aid in the transformation of the team into a full-fledged factory outfit. His experience and skill set are expected to play a critical role in shaping the team’s competitive edge.

Central to Audi’s Formula 1 strategy is the development of the Audi Power Unit, a hybrid powertrain that has been in the works since spring 2022. This development is spearheaded by the newly established Audi Formula Racing GmbH (AFR) based in Neuburg, Germany. The AFR team has made significant strides in the development phase, ensuring that the power unit is on track to meet the rigorous demands of Formula 1 racing. The Neuburg site, in collaboration with the Sauber facility in Hinwil, Switzerland, will form the nucleus of Audi’s factory team.

The Audi F1 Power Unit, crafted with precision and advanced engineering, represents a monumental achievement as it brings the development of an F1 power unit back to Germany for the first time in decades. This "Made in Germany" power unit embodies Audi’s commitment to technological excellence and innovation. The team at Neuburg has worked meticulously behind closed doors, ensuring that the powertrain is not only competitive but also aligns with Formula 1's evolving focus on sustainability and hybrid technology.

Audi’s entry into Formula 1 is not just about competing; it is about redefining the boundaries of what is possible in motorsport. By integrating cutting-edge technology with a sustainable approach, Audi aims to set new standards in performance and environmental responsibility. The collaboration between the Neuburg and Hinwil sites highlights a synergy that is expected to drive significant advancements in the sport.

New standards, made in Germany

As the countdown to 2026 begins, the motorsport world watches with anticipation. Audi’s meticulous preparation, strategic leadership appointments, and commitment to innovation signal a bright and competitive future. With seasoned professionals like Hoffmann, Seidl, Döllner, and Hülkenberg at the forefront, Audi is well-positioned to make a memorable and impactful debut in Formula 1, setting the stage for a new era of motorsport excellence.