Official: Audi becomes a partner of Sauber for its F1 project
It was an open secret, and now it's official. Sauber will officially become Audi's factory team in Formula 1 starting in 2026.
The brand with the rings has just formalized the signing of an agreement with Sauber for the Swiss entity to become the factory team of the German manufacturer in Formula 1. At the end of August last year, Audi confirmed its entry into the most prestigious of motor racing competitions from the 2026 season. Following this, Alfa Romeo, Sauber’s title sponsor since 2018, announced the end of their partnership with the company founded by Peter Sauber by the end of 2023. This indicated a future collaboration between Ingolstadt and Hinwill.
“We are delighted to have gained such an experienced and competent partner for our ambitious Formula 1 project,” said Oliver Hoffman, a member of the board of directors for technical development at Audi AG. “We were already familiar with Sauber Group and its state-of-the-art facilities and experienced team through previous collaborations, and we are confident that together, we will form a strong team.”
Audi Sport previously used Sauber’s wind tunnel for its successes at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, as well as for the development of its DTM-engaged models.
« Audi is the best partner for the Sauber Group, added Finn Rausing, CEO of Sauber. « It is clear that both companies share the same values and vision. We are looking forward to achieving our common goals with a strong and fruitful partnership.
The development of the power unit, which includes the electric motor, battery, control systems, and combustion engine, is already in progress at the Audi Formula Racing GmbH factory in Neuburg an der Donau, Germany. Over 120 people are already working on the project.
« Sauber is a first-class partner for the use of Audi’s power unit, stated Adam Baker, Audi’s F1 project manager. « We are looking forward to working with an experienced team that has contributed to shaping many eras in the history of Formula 1. Together, we want to write the new chapter that will begin in 2026.
Audi x Sauber: The strategic partnership with the Sauber Group is the next important milestone on our road to @F1. The Swiss squad will be competing as an Audi factory team from 2026. #Audi #F1 #Formula1 #FutureIsAnAttitude pic.twitter.com/476HjWJ0Yh
— Audi Sport (@audisport) October 26, 2022
