Audi to Buy Stake in Sauber, Join Formula 1 in 2026

Audi is officially joining Formula 1 when the series revamps its engine regulations.

The Volkswagen-owned carmaker confirmed longstanding rumors and announced its team-up with Sauber, beginning in 2026.

Audi plans to acquire a stake in the Sauber Group.

• Ferrari will remain Sauber’s power unit supplier through the 2025 season.
• Audi will construct the power units at its Neuburg facility, which it will expand throughout 2023 in personnel, building space, and technical infrastructure.
• The first tests of Audi’s F1 power unit will come in 2025.

Porsche, another Volkwagen-owned brand, appears likely to join Audi in 2026, as its deal to buy 50% of Williams Racing is reportedly close. Porsche previously appeared to have a similar deal in place with Red Bull, but the racing team reportedly backed out.

Climate Shift

Audi was lured into the global racing series by its commitments to sustainability.

“Formula 1 is taking a big step towards sustainability with the new regulations that will come into effect from 2026,” Audi said. “This was an important prerequisite for Audi to decide to enter the championship.”

In 2026, F1 will require an electric drivetrain that has as “nearly as much power as the internal combustion engine,” per Audi, as well as CO2-neutral sustainable synthetic fuel.