Audi confirms F1 entry from 2026 26 | 08 | 2022
AUDI HAS FINALLY, after years of speculation, confirmed it will race in Formula 1 from 2026. The German car manufacturer’s entry coincides wth new engine regulations coming into force the same year. One of the principal reasons Audi has given for its entry into the highest level of motorsport is F1’s plans to become more sustainable and cost-efficient. Confirmation was given this morning at a press conference at the Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix. (Related: Audi's RS3 mega-hatch to start at £50,900)
“Motorsport is an integral part of Audi’s DNA,” Audi CEO Markus Duesman said. “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.” (Related: Audi unveils Q5 Sportback e PHEV)
The new rules for 2026 include manufacturers agreeing to abandon the complex motor generator unit from the hybridised and turbocharged V6 engines. Importantly, new suppliers will receive extra testing time and larger spending allowances. (Related: Audi reveals 637bhp RS e-tron GT)
Audi will develop its own engine near to its Ingolstadt headquarters, making it the first F1 powertrain built in Germany for over a decade.
The changes to the F1 engines in 2026 will see an increase in power from the electrical side of the powertrain. According to Audi, it will be possible that the electric motor will produce as much power as the 1.6-litre turbocharged engines.
Crucially, engines themselves will also be required to run on sustainable fuel. This, Audi stated, was a prerequisite for its entry in F1.
Audi has yet to confirm on its partner team in F1, but it’s long been acknowledged that it will work with Sauber. It’s expected Audi will take a stake in the team and give it factory-level backing. An announcement will be made before the end of the year.
A second VW Group manufacturer, Porsche, is also set to enter F1 as an engine manufacturer, widely anticipated as partnering Red Bull.
Related: Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron concept
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Jim McGill