Audi Chooses Sauber as Partner for 2026 Formula 1 Debut

Aaron Chow
·2 min read

Audi has officially reached a deal with motorsport engineering company Sauber, joining Formula 1 as a power unit supplier in 2026. After considering several other options including McLaren and Williams, Sauber became the favorite thanks to its rich motorsports history and its state-of-the-art facilities.

Audi announced its entry into F1 back in August, citing the new earth-friendly rules such as 100 percent sustainable fuels and a focus on electrical power as a major reason for joining. On the other hand, Sauber is currently running under the Alfa Romeo name, with the title sponsorship set to end after the 2023 season. Ahead of Audi's arrival, the team will continue to use Ferrari power units until the end of 2025.

The German manufacturer currently has more than 120 people working on the Formula 1 power unit in Neuburg, Germany meanwhile Sauber will develop the race car chassis at their headquarters in Switzerland and handle race operations. Audi is also set to acquire an undisclosed stake in the Sauber Group.

"We are delighted to have gained such an experienced and competent partner for our ambitious Formula 1 project,” said Oliver Hoffmann, Audi AG Board Member responsible for the F1 program," says Oliver Hoffmann, the Audi Board Member responsible for the F1 program. "We already know the Sauber Group with its state-of-the-art facility and experienced team from previous collaborations and are convinced that together we will form a strong team."

Sauber Motorsport CEO and Team Principal Fred Vasseur echo the positive sentiments stating, "The partnership between Audi AG and Sauber Motorsport is a key step for our team as we continue to make progress towards the front of the grid. To become Audi’s official works team is not only an honor and a great responsibility: it’s the best option for the future and we are fully confident we can help Audi achieve the objectives they have set for their journey in Formula 1."

A deeper analysis can be found here.

Elsewhere, Oracle Red Bull Racing wins 2022 F1 constructors’ championship.