Audi’s new CEO reaffirms ambitions for future F1 team in 2026
Audi's new CEO, Gernot Dollner, reaffirmed the automaker's plans to enter Formula 1 in 2026 in his first interview since taking office to quell speculation that he was considering retiring.
Gernot Dollner, long-time director and strategist of the Volkswagen Group, took over as head of Audi in September, after former CEO Markus Duesmann, who led the brand’s decision to enter F1 through the acquisition of Sauber and the construction of its own power unit, was ousted by the group.
While Audi has remained silent about its F1 program, in order to avoid any interference with the outgoing title sponsor of Sauber, Alfa Romeo, the lack of communication has led to doubts about the progress of the brand’s commitment.
There have been reports that the development of their nascent engine was several months behind their competitors before speculations emerged that Audi was considering completely withdrawing from Formula 1.
These rumors, which likely come from Audi and the Volkswagen group, have not been contested since Dollner chose to stay out of the spotlight during the first 100 days of his reign. But in his first interview since taking office, Dollner has decided to confirm his commitment to Formula 1.
Speaking to the German economic newspaper Handelsblatt, he stated: “There is a clear decision from the Audi and Volkswagen boards of directors and supervisory boards that Audi will enter Formula 1 in 2026. The plan is in place.”
Status quo at Sauber
The team director of Sauber, Alessandro Alunni Bravi, firmly denied that Audi’s interest in F1 was wavering. « The reason for the lack of communication is simple. We are Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake. […] So, until the end of the year, we have certain limitations on communication about the team, about the future, about Audi’s involvement, and we fully respect Alfa Romeo for that ».
« We do not want to make any announcements or anything else that is not strictly related to the race and championship. The commitment, as I said, is there ».
In his interview with Handelsblatt, Dollner hinted at the slow decision-making process under the old management structure.
« We had a very complex committee landscape. That’s why we have now removed an entire level of committees below the board… in short: we are now faster and the most important decisions are once again made by the entire board team. »
