Audi has confirmed its Formula 1 entry from 2026. Although the luxury company has just stated that they would begin producing engines in 2026, it is anticipated that they will collaborate with Sauber.
One of the sport’s worst-kept secrets in recent months has been the participation of the Volkswagen-owned brands Audi and Porsche, and Audi was the first to reveal their plans before to this weekend’s Belgian GP.
Previously linked to a deal with McLaren, Audi is now said to be focusing on Sauber, which is now owned by Alfa Romeo but has been in talks with other companies.
Weeks after the 2026 engine regulations were confirmed, Audi announced their plans to create their own engines. The chassis is still anticipated to be created at Sauber’s facility in Switzerland.
“I am delighted to welcome Audi to Formula 1, an iconic automotive brand, pioneer and technological innovator,” said F1 president Stefano Domenicali.
“This is a major moment for our sport that highlights the huge strength we have as a global platform that continues to grow. It is also a big recognition that our move to sustainably fueled hybrid engines in 2026 is a future solution for the automotive sector. We are all looking forward to seeing the Audi logo on the grid and will be hearing further details from them on their plans in due course.”
I think it’s very exciting and very important for Formula 1 as well. Of course we have great teams, but to have really great brands behind it is really nice. I’m looking forward to what the future will bring.
Max Verstappen
Volkswagen’s German rivals Mercedes have dominated F1 for much of the last decade but the manufacturing giant has not previously been involved with the sport.
It has, though, worked with Red Bull in the world rally championship.
It is expected that Porsche will link up with Red Bull, who they have been linked with for several years and who have their own Powertrains Division focused on the 2026 changes.
Speaking about the luxury brands’ potential arrival earlier this year, Lewis Hamilton said: “I think it’s great that we’re going to get new manufacturers within the sport, especially as you see there are several teams who have potential to be top teams but are customer teams, so I think it’s going to be great moving forwards.”
Max Verstappen added: “I think it’s very exciting and very important for Formula 1 as well. Of course we have great teams, but to have really great brands behind it is really nice. I’m looking forward to what the future will bring.”
