In August, German car manufacturer Audi announced that it would join Formula 1 as an electrical equipment supplier and has now confirmed a partnership with Sauber; The Swiss builder currently operates under the Alfa Romeo banner, but that partnership will end in 2023.
Last Updated: 10/26/22 10:10 am
Audi and Sauber will be partners for the German brand’s 2026 F1 entry
Sauber has confirmed it will become a strategic partner of Audi when the German automaker enters Formula 1 in 2026.
The Swiss builder has been running under the Alfa Romeo banner since 2019, but that partnership will end at the end of the 2023 season.
Sauber will then continue to operate with Ferrari’s current supply units in 2024 and 2025 before Audi takes over next year, with Audi planning to “acquire shares of the Sauber Group”.
“The partnership between Audi AG and Sauber Motorsport is an important step for our team as we continue to make progress going forward on the grid,” said Frederic Vasseur, Sauber team principal.
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Audi Board Chairman Markus Duesmann announced that the German car company has officially registered to become an electric motor manufacturer in F1
“Being an official Audi team is not only a great honor and responsibility, but it is the best choice for the future and we are fully confident that we can help Audi achieve the goals they have set. set out for the journey in Formula 1”
This is Sauber’s second full working agreement after they linked up with BMW in the 2000s, and owner Finn Rausing said Audi is the “best strategic partner” for the company.
The goal now will be to get back to at least the upline.
Sauber, who first debuted in Formula 1 in 1993, partnered with Alfa Romeo in 2018 but still operate on a smaller budget than nearly all of their rivals and have moved towards the rear of the grid electricity since then.
Linking with Audi will certainly help their goals.
“We are delighted to have an experienced and capable partner for our ambitious Formula 1 project,” said Audi board member Oliver Hoffman, who is responsible for the F1 program at the level. company, said.
“We have come to know the Sauber Group with its state-of-the-art facilities and experienced team from previous collaborations and are convinced that together we will form a strong team.”
Stefano Domenicali, F1 president and chief executive officer, said: “It is great news to hear that Audi will partner with Sauber to enter Formula 1 in 2026.
“The combination of those two names is a very exciting prospect for our sport. It highlights the strong momentum that Formula 1 has and the confidence in our strategy for growth. and elevate the sport while delivering on our sustainability plans Net Zero Carbon by 2030 with advanced sustainable fuels in cars by 2026.
“We look forward to seeing their progress in the coming years and the car on the grid for the team’s first race.”
Audi confirmed in August they will join Formula 1 for a period of four years as an electrical equipment supplier and previously had a partnership relationship with McLaren. Meanwhile, Volkswagen’s countryman brand Porsche has signed a contract with Red Bull but kept its F1 profits.
Audi will develop the engine from their German facility, with the chassis expected to be developed at the Swiss Sauber facility.
The new generation of F1 engines will feature increased electrical power and 100% sustainable fuel.
