Neel Jani joins Audi as simulator driver

Taking the next step ahead of their F1 entry in 2026, Audi have announced sportscar veteran Neel Jani as their simulator driver with the Swiss driver set to support the development of the Audi power unit.

The German brand will enter the Formula 1 scene as of the 2026 campaign, taking over the Switzerland-based Sauber company. Audi intends to run their first hybrid power unit on the dyno before the year is out and provide the basis for the future vehicle concept.

Oliver Hoffmann, Audi AG Board Member responsible for the F1 programme, added: “Just like in production development, simulation plays a major role in our Formula 1 project.

“Our simulator is an important tool for the power unit development. It requires a development driver who in addition to a grasp of technology brings versatile experience to the project, especially in terms of energy management in racing conditions.”

As a former test and reserve driver at Red Bull Racing, Jani spent many hours in a Formula 1 simulator. As a race driver in endurance racing, he gathered valuable experience in a hybrid race car. As a member of the Porsche factory team, he won the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) in 2016 as well as the famous 24-hour race at Le Mans.

“I am delighted to accompany Audi on their way into Formula 1,” said the Swiss driver.

"It is both an honor and a great responsibility to be involved in a project of this magnitude at an early stage. I am sure that with my experience from Formula 1 and LMP projects I can forge good links between theory and practice.”