Audi set to join Formula 1 from 2026
Ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, Audi has announced it will enter Formula 1 from 2026 with the German manufacturer joining the fray as a power unit supplier.
The sport has recently finalized the new power unit regulations that will come into force in 2026. The new unit will maintain the current V6 internal combustion engine architecture but feature increased electrical power and 100% sustainable fuels. The new regulations have been designed in a bid to make it possible and attractive for new manufacturers to join the sport.
The Volkswagen brand has been long linked with a possible involvement at the pinnacle of motorsport, and it has now confirmed its entry as engine supplier from 2026 at Spa during a press conference on Friday morning that was attended by FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, F1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali, as well as Audi board member Markus Duesmann.
Following the announcement this morning, Formula 1 President & CEO Stefano Domenicali said: “I am delighted to welcome Audi to Formula 1, an iconic automotive brand, pioneer and technological innovator. This is a major moment for our sport that highlights the huge strength we have as a global platform that continues to grow.
"It is also a big recognition that our move to sustainably fuelled hybrid engines in 2026 is a future solution for the automotive sector. We are all looking forward to seeing the Audi logo on the grid and will be hearing further details from them on their plans in due course," Domenicali said.
Markus Duesmann, Chairman of the Board of Management of Audi: We will join the @F1 by 2026. https://t.co/F0KlkG2KMT
— Audi (@AudiOfficial) August 26, 2022
Commenting on Audi's announcement Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG Markus Duesmann said: "Motorsport is an integral part of Audi. 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.”
