The luxury brand is expected to have a tie-up with Sauber, although so far they have only announced that they will be making engines from 2026 onwards.
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Audi has confirmed its entry into Formula 1 from 2026.
The luxury brand is expected to have a tie-up with Sauber, although so far they have only announced that they will be making engines from 2026 onwards.
The entry of Volkswagen’s Audi and Porsche brands into F1 has been one of the sport’s worst-kept secrets in recent months, with Audi first to confirm its plans ahead of this year’s Belgian GP weekend.
Audi was previously linked with a partnership with McLaren, but has reportedly turned its attention to Sauber, which currently runs under the Alfa Romeo banner but has been in talks with other marques.
Audi, whose announcement comes weeks after the 2026 engine rules were confirmed, plans to develop its own engines, with the chassis still expected to be developed at Sauber’s base in Switzerland.
“I am delighted to welcome Audi to Formula 1, an iconic automotive brand, pioneer and technological innovator,” said F1 chairman Stefano Domenicali.
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“This is an important moment for our sport that highlights the great strength we have as a global platform that continues to grow.
“It is also a great recognition that our move to sustainable fuel hybrid engines in 2026 is a future solution for the automotive sector. We are all looking forward to seeing the Audi logo on the network and will hear more details from them about his plans. in due time.”
Volkswagen’s German rivals Mercedes have dominated F1 for much of the past decade, but the manufacturing giant had not previously been involved with the sport.
However, he has worked with Red Bull in the World Rally Championship.
Porsche is expected to link up with Red Bull, who they have been linked with for a number of years and who have their own engine division focused on the 2026 changes.
Speaking about the potential arrival of luxury brands earlier this year, Lewis Hamilton said: “I think it’s great that we’re getting new manufacturers into the sport, especially as you see there are a number of teams that have the potential to be top teams, but they are client teams, so I think it will be great going forward.”
Max Verstappen added: “I think it’s very exciting and very important for Formula 1 as well.
“Of course we have great teams, but having great brands behind us is really nice. I’m really looking forward to what the future holds.”
