Audi Unveils Formula One Team Plans For 2026
Audi Unveils Formula One Team Plans For 2026: Automaker Audi announced at a press conference Friday it will enter Formula One as a power unit constructor in 2026, the company said, just days before this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix.
With motorsports being integral to Audi, Dennis Duesman, Audi’s chairman of the board, said that it is a global stage for their brand while also being an industry where they constantly develop new cars. “Formula One” is both a global stage for the company and their driving development lab.
With this new shift for the automotive industry, now is a great time to start. Formula One and Audi both have clear sustainability goals so the new rules are beneficial to us.
The new regulations for the 2026 season will open up things for Audi. These new regulations mean that Audi has a fighting chance in F1, and is already even with other engine manufacturers in the league.
While Duesmann spoke about the company’s goals for sustainability, F1 has completely reversed their stance with the new regulations for 2026 that are focused on using 100% sustainable fuels and electrical power. Cars will no longer use MGU-Hs.
Formula One’s CEO, Stefano Domenicali, spoke at the press conference and came out in support of Audi’s addition to the racing field. He said that he was excited to welcome such a well-respected brand with an illustrious history into his sport, as well as its popularity. Thanks to Formula One’s global reach, this is a big moment for the sport.
Time is running out for car manufacturers to develop new hybrid cars. The 2026 goal for the Audi brand in terms of fuel efficient engines is proof that this transition is possilbe. Audi will be releasing more information on their plans in due course
Following the partnership between Alfa Romeo and Sauber, Audi will join other automotive providers such as Ferrari, Mercedes, Renault and Red Bull Powertrains. No information about which team Audi will be partnering with has been released yet. Audi is expected to take over the Sauber F1 team in 2021.