Audi has officially confirmed it will enter Formula 1 as a power unit supplier from 2026.
The German manufacturer announced the news in a press conference at Spa Francorchamps on Friday, ahead of this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix.
While Audi’s intention to join F1 has long been known, the confirmation comes after the sport finally approved its new power unit regulations for 2026 during the summer break.
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The new engines will see a shift to 100% sustainable fuels and almost half the overall performance comes from electrical power as the ERS gets a major boost.
A new budget cap for power unit suppliers will also come into effect, making it more affordable for new manufacturers than before.
“I am delighted to welcome Audi to Formula 1, an iconic automotive brand, pioneer and technological innovator,” said F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.
“This is a major moment for our sport that highlights the huge strength we have as a global platform that continues to grow.
“It is also a big recognition that our move to sustainably fuelled hybrid engines in 2026 is a future solution for the automotive sector.
“We are all looking forward to seeing the Audi logo on the grid and will be hearing further details from them on their plans in due course.”
It is expected Audi will partner with Sauber, who currently competes under the Alfa Romeo name, although that announcement will come “by the end of this year”.
The tie-up is attractive due to the relatively close proximity of Sauber’s base in Hinwil, Switzerland and Audi Sport’s hub in Neuburg, Germany, where the new engines will be produced.
The company confirmed test benches for the new F1 power unit are already in place, with a further expansion in personnel, buildings and technical infrastructure planned.
“Motorsport is an integral part of Audi’s DNA,” said Chairman Markus Duesmann at Spa.
“Formula 1 is both a global stage for our brand and a highly challenging development laboratory. The combination of high performance and competition is always a driver of innovation and technology transfer in our industry.
“With the new rules, now is the right time for us to get involved. After all, Formula 1 and Audi both pursue clear sustainability goals.”