MOTORSPORT: Audi to join F1 grid from 2026

The recently announced new power unit regulations for Formula 1 have enticed Audi to join the grid from 2026.

The next-generation engines are set to feature the same base V6 platform currently utilised, however, they will feature increased electrical power propelled by 100 per cent sustainable synthetic fuel, factors Audi has noted as key in its decision to commit to the sport.

Importantly for the marque, power unit cost caps will be implemented from next season, which is hoped to rein in spending and close the competition.

The Audi powerplants are set to be assembled at the company’s base in Neuburg, making it the first time in over a decade that F1 engines have been produced in Germany.

“Motorsport is an integral part of Audi’s DNA,” said Markus Duesmann, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG.

“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.”

Although it's yet to name a partner team, paddock speculation has the brand joining forces with the Sauber outfit, which currently runs under the Alfa Romeo banner.

Previously, the Swiss-based team was the official BMW representative between 2006 and ’09.

For Formula 1, luring the Volkswagen Group to join Ferrari, Mercedes, Renault and Red Bull/Honda as a participant is a major coup.

“I am delighted to welcome Audi to Formula 1, an iconic automotive brand, pioneer and technological innovator,” said F1 President and CEO, Stefano Domenicali, who had previously worked for the marque.

“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.”

Audi comes into F1 with numerous major motorsport successes to its credit, including in the World Rally Championship, DTM, the World Endurance Championship, Pikes Peak and Formula E.

On Australian shores, Brad Jones claimed a pair of Super Touring titles aboard A4 Quattros, while the Audi R8 is the winningest model in the GT3 era of the Bathurst 12 Hour.

The long run-up to Audi's 2026 debut is likely to put the manufacturer in good stead, with work mooted to have already started assembling the necessary infrastructure and workforce for the project.

In further positive news for F1, paddock speculation has sister Volkswagen Group brand Porsche set to partner with Red Bull, while Aston Martin has noted that it is interested in preparing in-house powerplants for its squad, which currently relies on Mercedes power.

Formula 1 hits the track this weekend following its mid-season break with the Belgium Grand Prix from Spa-Francorchamps.