Official: Audi in F1 in 2026
Audi has officially announced its entry into Formula 1 as a power unit manufacturer starting from 2026.
The confirmation arrived from Audi this Friday morning before the first free practice sessions of the Belgian Grand Prix weekend. And this, just after the next powertrain regulation cycle was finalized by the FIA last week.
The entry of Audi marks the first major step in Formula 1 starting from 2026 for the Volkswagen group. It should be joined on the grid from 2026 by sister brand Porsche through a partnership with Red Bull.
Audi’s arrival comes after years of links to a potential entry in F1, a period during which the brand had mainly focused on its efforts in sport car racing and, until the end of the 2020-21 season, in Formula E.
This marks a major milestone for F1, which has seen its popularity increase in recent years while also enhancing its appeal to potential manufacturers, aided by the series’ commitment to using sustainable fuels.
Stefano Domenicali’s reaction.
“I am delighted to welcome Audi to Formula 1, an iconic, pioneering, and innovative car brand in terms of technology,” stated Stefano Domenicali, president of Formula 1.
« It is a major moment for our sport that highlights the tremendous strength we have as a global platform that continues to grow. It is also a great recognition that our transition to sustainable hybrid engines in 2026 is a future solution for the automotive sector.
»
We are all eager to see the Audi logo on the grid and we will hear more details about their projects in due time.
Is an association with Sauber planned?
Although the announcement did not confirm with whom Audi would work, the German manufacturer is about to partner with Sauber.
The partnership should enable Audi to develop the powertrain at its Neuburg facility, while the chassis will be built in the existing Sauber factory in Hinwil, which features state-of-the-art wind tunnel technology.
With Audi’s entry now official, Porsche should follow suit in the coming days by announcing its plans with Red Bull, which means that the two worst-kept secrets in Formula 1 would be public knowledge.
The colors of Audi on an F1 car.
Audi presented a showcar with its colors on a Formula 1, here’s what it would look like:
