Audi to enter Formula One in 2026 as power unit manufacturer

Berlin, The Gulf Observer: Racing, motorsport is in the DNA of Audi. If you think of Le Mans, and Dakar, we have always been very successful. It’s perfect timing with the rule changes for us to enter F1.”

It is not yet clear if Audi, which has been linked to a set up with Sauber, will run its own team or only supply engines. Duesmann said entering in 2026 was wiser than starting earlier in F1.

“As we do a complete new powertrain, the combustion engine and the power side, that is not too long for us,” He said. “In less than four years from now we will be on the grid.”

The project will be based at Audi Sports facility in Neuburg, Germany, near Ingolstadt.

Audi is the second-most successful manufacturer in the 24 Hours Le Mans endurance race with 13 wins, and began to work on electrifying the car in that series as early as 2012.

FIA President Mohamed Ben Sulayem expects Audi to make a long-term commitment to F1 when the new cycle begins, which Duesmann agreed with.

Audi is widely expected to be joined on the grid in 2026 by Porsche in a partnership with Red Bull.