Audi set to become F1 factory team from 2026
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- GPblog.com
Sauber will become the Audi factory team from the 2026 Formula 1 season onwards, using a power unit developed by Audi themselves. Sauber will work closely with Audi from 2026, both parties said in a statement. In addition, the engine supplier is given the necessary influence within the racing team to make the collaboration a success.
Audi will become factory team in 2026
The news by no means comes as a surprise, as Audi and Sauber spoke intensively with each other on several occasions recently. Last week, moreover, Sauber hinted that the announcement would soon follow, saying it would be historic news.
Shaping the @F1 future together: #Audi x Sauber. The strategic partnership with the Sauber Group is the next milestone on the road to Formula 1. The Swiss squad will be competing as an Audi factory team from 2026 ⁰>> https://t.co/RbuOKZCY6J#F1 #Formula1 #news pic.twitter.com/cIcWExJ1NQ
— Audi (@AudiOfficial) October 26, 2022
“We are delighted to have gained such an experienced and competent partner for our ambitious Formula 1 project,” says Oliver Hoffmann, Member of the Board for Technical Development at AUDI AG. “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.”
“Audi is the best partner for the Sauber Group,” says Finn Rausing, Chairman of Sauber Holding. “It is clear that both companies share the same values and vision. We are looking forward to achieving our common goals with a strong and successful partnership.”
The power unit is being developed at the facility of the specially founded Audi Formula Racing GmbH in Neuburg an der Donau, with over 120 employees already working on the project.
“Sauber is a first-class partner for the use of the Audi Power Unit,” says Adam Baker, managing director of the company. “We are looking forward to working with an experienced team that has helped shape many eras of Formula 1 history. Together, we want to write the next chapter starting in 2026.”
Sauber to run with Ferrari engines in 2024 and 2025
In their own press release, Sauber Group reveals that it will race with Ferrari's current engines in 2024 and 2025. "The team will compete in 2024 and 2025 with its current power unit manufacturer, honouring its existing partnership that enabled the team to make major steps forward in competitiveness and stability.."