Audi Announces Entry into Formula 1 for 2026 Season at GIMS Qatar

German automaker Audi is set to enter the prestigious FIA Formula 1 World Championship starting from the 2026 season, marking its return to top-tier motorsport. The announcement was made at the Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix in Spa-Francorchamps. This decision follows Audi’s commitment to sustainability goals and the evolving landscape of Formula 1.

Formula 1: A Platform for Sustainability and Innovation

Audi’s entry into Formula 1 aligns with the sport’s commitment to sustainability and cost-efficiency. The upcoming technical rules for Formula 1, effective from 2026, emphasise greater electrification and the use of advanced sustainable fuels. In addition, both teams and power unit manufacturers will be subject to cost caps to enhance cost control. Formula 1’s ambitious goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 also resonates with Audi’s sustainability objectives.

German Engineering for Formula 1

Audi’s Formula 1 power unit will be developed at its Audi Sport facility in Neuburg an der Donau, Germany. This marks a significant moment as it’s the first time in over a decade that a Formula 1 powertrain will be produced in Germany. The project’s leadership will be under Adam Baker, a seasoned motorsport professional with experience at the FIA.

Formula 1’s Global Appeal and Audi’s Vision

Formula 1 offers Audi a global platform with a massive fan base and high viewership, especially among young audiences. The sport’s presence in key markets aligns with Audi’s strategy for expanding its reach and promoting its vision of sustainable mobility.

Audi Sport’s Shift and New Leadership

Audi Sport is reshaping its priorities with the Formula 1 entry, discontinuing its LMDh (Le Mans Daytona hybrid) project. Julius Seebach, Managing Director of Audi Sport, who played a pivotal role in Audi’s motorsport ventures, will transition to a new role within AUDI AG’s Technical Development department.

Rolf Michl, who has extensive experience within Audi Sport, will succeed Julius Seebach as the new Chief Operating Officer Racing at Audi Sport GmbH. His leadership will continue to drive Audi’s motorsport and performance endeavors.

Audi’s entry into Formula 1 marks a significant milestone in the company’s motorsport history and reinforces its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The combination of Formula 1’s global reach and Audi’s engineering expertise promises an exciting future for the sport and the automotive industry.