Audi will enter Formula 1 in 2026, naming the newly known existing Sauber as Alfa Romeo as its factory partner.
The German manufacturer had announced in the past that it would produce engines at that time with this long-awaited partnership with Sauber.
Sauber has already worked with other manufacturers, adding BMW when the team’s call changed, while a long-standing Ferrari engine contract saw the team transfer to Alfa Romeo for the 2019 season.
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That deal is scheduled to end in 2024 and 2025, when the team is expected to return to Sauber’s call with the power of Ferrari, ahead of Audi’s access and engines in 2026.
Audi will produce the power unit in Germany, while Sauber will continue to expand and manufacture the car in Switzerland while running race operations.
“We are very pleased to have obtained such an experienced and competent spouse for our ambitious Formula 1 project,” said Oliver Hoffmann, Member of the Board of Management of Audi AG for the F1 program.
“We already know the Sauber Group with its services and experienced team from past collaborations and we are confident that together we will form a strong team. “
Sauber Chairman of Management Finn Rausing added: “Audi is the strategic partner of the Sauber Group. It is transparent that we express our values and our vision, and look to the future to achieve our common goals through a strong and successful union.
Fred Vasseur, CEO and Team Principal of Sauber Motorsport, said: “The partnership between Audi AG and Sauber Motorsport is a key milestone for us as we continue to move towards the front of the grid.
“Becoming the Audi works factory team is not only an honour and a wonderful responsibility: it is the most productive option in the long term and we are fully convinced that we can help Audi achieve the goals they have set for their adventure in Formula 1. “