Audi cements F1 entry with Sauber acquisition

Audi has taken a definitive step towards its planned 2026 Formula 1 entry by completing the next phase of its takeover of the Sauber team.

This move solidifies Audi's commitment despite recent management changes and board-level hesitations about the costly F1 project.

Technical development driving forward

According to Motorsport-Total Germany, Audi board member Oliver Hoffmann has been appointed as a director at Sauber, above current CEO Andreas Seidl.

This underlines Hoffmann's pivotal role in steering Audi's F1 program forward on the technical side.

The German manufacturer aims to have its dedicated F1 power unit ready for testing in 2025, in preparation for the new regulations arriving in 2026.

Expansion of Audi's Neuburg facilities to accommodate the F1 project is expected to be "largely completed" this year as planned.

Commitment continues despite skepticism

There had been mounting speculation in recent months that Audi's participation in F1 from 2026 could be in jeopardy.

This followed the departure of former CEO Markus Duesmann, who originally announced Audi's F1 entry plan at the 2022 Belgian Grand Prix alongside Hoffmann.

Duesmann's successor Gernot Dollner was widely reported to be more skeptical about the huge investment required for an F1 programme.

Rumors also suggested Hoffmann himself could be sidelined after delays with upcoming road car models.

However, Sauber team representatives have firmly dismissed any doubts over Audi's commitment.

Speaking in Saudi Arabia, Sauber's Alessandro Alunni Bravi stated:

"The project is proceeding according to the timeline and the agreed governance...we have a strong support."

While Audi initially acquired just a 25% stake in Sauber in early 2023, it is now believed the Volkswagen Group brand will complete a full 100% takeover of the Swiss racing team from owner Finn Rausing.

Andreas Seidl reportedly confirmed the deal's final stage to staff in Saudi Arabia.