Audi has taken the next step towards its participation in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship. Choosing Sauber as a strategic partner, Audi also plans to buy shares in the Sauber Group. Sauber, the Swiss-based experienced team of Formula 1, will compete as the Audi Factory Team from 2026, using power units developed by Audi.
Announcing that it will enter Formula 1 in August, Audi has also determined its strategic partner. Sauber, one of the most famous and traditional teams in Formula 1 and having experience in competition for nearly 30 years, will use the power unit that Audi will develop at the Motorsport Competence Center in Neuburg an der Donau. The racing vehicle will be developed and manufactured by Sauber in Hinwil (Switzerland). Sauber will also be responsible for the planning and execution of racing operations in the partnership.
Oliver Hoffmann, AUDI AG Board Member for Technical Development, stated that they are happy to have gained an experienced and competent partner in Audi's projects in Formula 1. Audi Sport used the Sauber Group's high-tech facilities in Hinwil during the Le Mans era and during the development of the Class 1 car for the DTM. We believe that together we will form a strong team.” said.
Saying that Audi is the best partner for the Sauber Group, Sauber Holding Chairman Finn Rausing said, “It is clear that both companies share the same values and vision. We look forward to achieving our common goals through a strong and successful cooperation.” he said.
Work and expansion of the Neuburg plant are in full swing
The development of the power unit that Audi will compete with in Forlua 1 continues at full speed at Audi's specially established Audi Formula Racing GmbH facility in Neuburg an der Donau, with more than 120 employees.
The work schedule of the brand until the first race in the 2026 season is also very ambitious: The expansion of the Neuburg facility in terms of personnel, buildings and technical infrastructure is aimed to be completed in 2023. Test drives are also scheduled to begin in 2025.
As it is known, Formula 1 is taking a big step towards sustainability with new regulations that will come into effect from 2026. This was the most important factor in Audi's decision to enter the championship. Power units will be more efficient than they are today, as the proportion of electrical power to be used will increase significantly.
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