Audi confirms Formula 1 entry

Audi will enter Formula 1 for the first time in 2026, confirming the long-rumoured news at this weekend’s Belgium Grand Prix.

The German brand will build its own hybrid power unit at its Neuburg facility near its headquarters in Ingolstadt.

Audi is expected to create its own works team by partnering with the Sauber team currently operating as Alfa Romeo.

Sister brand Porsche is expected to make a return to Formula 1 in 2026, joining as an engine partner to Red Bull.

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Audi’s announcement comes shortly after the FIA, motorsport’s governing body, confirmed new F1 engine regulations for 2026 onwards. The current 1.6-litre turbocharged V6 concept remains, though the engines will use synthetic sustainable fuels while electric assistance will make a greater contribution to performance – about half (400kW) of the approximate 1000bhp output.

Audi’s statement at the Belgian GP confirmed these were vital changes for the company to consider its entry.

“Motorsport is an integral part of Audi’s DNA,” said Audi’s chairman of the board, Markus Duesmann.

“Formula 1 is both a global stage for our brand and a highly challenging development laboratory. The combination of high performance and competition is always a driver of innovation and technology transfer in our industry.

“With the new rules, now is the right time for us to get involved. After all, Formula 1 and Audi both pursue clear sustainability goals.”

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Audi had been linked to the McLaren F1 team earlier this year as its interest in joining the world’s premier motor racing series became more obvious.

It is believed Audi will turn Sauber into a proper works outfit, where Alfa Romeo is essentially just a primary sponsor of the Sauber team currently – powered by Ferrari engines.

Sauber last operated as a works team with Audi rival BMW, between 2006 and 2009. After just one victory in four seasons, BMW sold the outfit back to former owner Peter Sauber.