Volkswagen is studying the possibility of entering Formula 1
Volkswagen Group, already present in numerous automotive competitions, is considering entering Formula 1. If that were the case, the German manufacturer would launch its own team and not just play the role of an engine supplier.
Chimerical for years, Volkswagen’s commitment to Formula 1 is taking a somewhat more concrete turn. Indeed, the powerful German automotive group is considering turning towards the pinnacle of motorsport, likely motivated by the resounding success of its rival Mercedes.
For the moment, according to the BBC, the German firm is studying the feasibility of a Formula 1 project. This study would be led by Stefano Domenicali, hired by Audi – which belongs to the Volkswagen group – earlier in the year after having been shown the door at Ferrari.
The Volkswagen group, which notably includes the brands Audi, Porsche, Lamborghini, Bugatti, Bentley, Skoda, and Seat, would have plenty of choices to engage under the name that would seem to have the greatest commercial potential, as Ford was able to do by badging its team Jaguar after its purchase of Stewart Grand Prix in 2000 (a team later bought by Dietrich Mateschitz who would make it into the victorious Red Bull).
Furthermore, Volkswagen was part of the consortium of car manufacturers that brought Formula 1 to the idea of hybrids, a technology introduced in this year’s powertrains. At the time, the German group was not interested in joining Formula 1, but according to Andrew Benson of the BBC, the mindset would be completely different today.
Some rumors have recently linked Volkswagen’s return with a possible engine supply for the Red Bull team, which has been greatly disappointed with the performance of the Renault power units this season, despite having won its four Constructors’ World Championships with them. However, Volkswagen is considering entering Formula 1 with its own team that would be based in Germany.
Volkswagen, engaged in DTM, the World Rally Championship, and Endurance with Porsche and Audi, has reportedly spent over 300 million euros on its sports program, while Mercedes has reached 130 million euros with its Formula 1 program, with significant media and sponsorship impacts. These figures could weigh in the balance when the German manufacturer makes its choice.
