Audi is entering F1 in 2026, and preparations continue at a furious pace. The firm certainly surprised the F1 world by ramping up its original buyout of Sauber. Initially, the plan was to buy just 75% of the Swiss-based team. Instead, it took 100% control.
Ironically, this followed a period of speculation that Audi was actually about to completely reverse its decision to enter Formula 1 in 2026 because of the new rules. “We discussed it intensively and decided to significantly accelerate our involvement in Formula 1,” explained Dollner to Germany’s Auto Motor und Sport.
AUDI IS ENTERING F1
He says Audi is not interested in being in F1 simply to make up the numbers. “With the expertise of Oliver Hoffmann, who has significantly driven the project forward since the beginning, we are confident that we can be at the front,” said Dollner.
Audi has already signed up German driver Nico Hulkenberg, who is currently at Haas. He will begin racing a Sauber next year, prior to the works rebranding a season later. Hulkenberg says another team was interested in signing him for 2025, in addition to Haas and Audi. So, what tipped the scales in the latter’s favour …?
GOOD TIMING FOR HULK
“The timing of the whole project is very exciting to me. When Audi launches in 2026, they will have had four years to prepare,” he told Germany’s Sport Bild this week. “And this will be one of the most radical rule changes in the history of Formula 1, both on the engine and aerodynamics side of the car.
“With the long lead time, the power of Audi and the resources that a factory team brings with it, there is definitely a chance of success,” confirmed the German race driver. CEO Dollner concluded by saying: “For me, there are only two types of involvement in Formula 1 – none at all or aiming to be at the very front.” – with GMM
NEXT READ: Off the grid: 2024 Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ Sedan review
What are your thoughts on Audi entering F1? Do you think they will be competitive from the start or their campaign? Be sure to share your thoughts with our audience in the comments section below. And don’t forget to follow us @TheSANews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest updates.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ARTICLES FROM RAY LEATHERN
