Audi reveals F1 entry as works team with Sauber for 2026

Audi has finally revealed that it will join forces with the Sauber Group with the Swiss company set to become its strategic partner and its works team from the 2026 season onwards.

Audi announced in late August that it will enter Formula One as an engine manufacturer at the beginning of the 2026 season that will see the introduction of the new generation power units. Formula One is eager to take the next step to achieve its ambitious sustainability plan to have a net-zero carbon footprint by 2030 by introducing the new engines that will feature increased electrical power and 100% sustainable fuels.

Following Audi's announcement in August, it was not clear which team the German manufacturer will enter into collaboration with. Audi has now revealed that it has signed an agreement with the Sauber Group which will become its strategic partner.

Furthermore, the Swiss team will not only serve as a strategic partner, but it will operate as Audi's works team from the 2026 season onwards with Audi AG also planning to acquire a stake in the Sauber Group. The Ingolstadt-based manufacturer has already started the preparations for the development of the Audi Power Unit at the Neuburg facility.

The team that runs currently under the banner of Alfa Romeo will compete in 2024 and 2025 with its current power unit manufacturer, Ferrari.

Finn Rausing, Sauber Holding AG Chairman of the Board of Directors: “Audi is the best strategic partner for the Sauber Group. It is clear that we share values and a vision, and we look forward to achieving our common goals in a strong and successful partnership.”

Current team boss Frederic Vasseur added: "The partnership between Audi AG and Sauber Motorsport is a key step for our team as we continue to make progress towards the front of the grid. To become Audi’s official works team is not only an honour and a great responsibility: it’s the best option for the future and we are fully confident we can help Audi achieve the objectives they have set for their journey in F1.”

Stefano Domenicali, CEO of F1 said: “It is great news to hear that Audi will have a partnership with Sauber for their entry into Formula 1 in 2026. The combination of those two names is a very exciting prospect for our sport.

"It highlights the strong momentum that Formula 1 has and the belief in our strategy to further grow and enhance the sport while delivering on our sustainability plans to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030 with advanced sustainable fuels in the cars in 2026. We look forward to seeing their progress over the coming years and the car on the grid for the team’s first race," concluded Domenicali.