Audi to get sustainable fuels, lubricants from BP for F1 debut

Audi's ambitious Formula 1 project has taken a significant step forward with the announcement of a technical partnership with oil and energy conglomerate BP.

The collaboration will see BP produce the 100% sustainable fuel required by F1's 2026 regulations, marking a crucial milestone in Audi's preparation for its grid debut.

The partnership extends beyond fuel supply, with BP's Castrol brand set to provide a range of lubricants and greases for the team.

This comprehensive agreement also includes marketing opportunities for BP, Castrol, and Aral—BP's German subsidiary—on the team's assets.

A proven partnership

The collaboration between Audi and BP is not a new venture in the motorsport world. Andreas Seidl, Audi F1 CEO, highlighted the significance of this established relationship:

"Audi and BP have always worked together successfully in motorsport. We are delighted that we can take this special partnership to the next level in Formula 1."

Seidl emphasized the alignment between the two companies' ethos, stating,

"Audi stands for 'Vorsprung durch Technik' and BP and Castrol also aspire to deliver the best technologies in the field of fuels and lubricants. This is a perfect match."

Early preparations for 2026

BP has been instrumental in Audi's development process, supplying fuel for the testing of the new V6 turbo hybrid powertrain.

The partnership will also see BP produce e-fluids for the hybrid components, including oils and thermal management liquids.

Adam Baker, CEO of Audi Formula Racing, underscored the importance of early collaboration:

"There will be strong competition in the field of sustainable fuels in Formula 1 from 2026. In view of the high performance potential, it was important for us to start our fuel testing at the end of 2022 with BP as our partner."

Sustainable fuel development

The FIA's push for sustainable fuels in F1 from 2026 requires fuel compositions from proven sustainable sources, aiming to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Baker revealed the extensive work already underway:

"It is impressive how many different fuel variants we have developed to date as we prepare for our 2026 race season."

Audi's commitment to this aspect of development is clear, with Baker noting,

"We use all three single-cylinder test benches allowed by the FIA regulations intensively for fuel development."

A rich history in Motorsport

Both Audi and BP bring considerable motorsport experience to this partnership.

Audi has previously utilized Castrol products across various racing programs, including its successful DTM campaigns and the iconic Group B Audi Quattro in the World Rally Championship.

BP and Castrol's Formula 1 heritage is equally impressive.

Castrol served as title sponsor for Lotus in the early 1990s before a long-standing partnership with Williams.

BP's involvement in F1 dates back to the 1960s, supporting numerous British teams before its current partnership with Alpine.