---
title: "Audi confirms F1 entry for 2026, delays takeover announcement"
canonical: "https://readmotorsport.com/2022/08/26/audi-confirms-f1-entry-for-2026-delays-takeover-announcement/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Hamilton Lyndon-Griffiths"
section: "F1 News"
published: "2022-08-26T10:37:41Z"
modified: "2022-08-26T10:37:42Z"
---

# Audi confirms F1 entry for 2026, delays takeover announcement

Audi has finally confirmed its plans to enter Formula 1 in 2026 under the new power unit regulations, but has delayed its poised takeover of Sauber.

In a Friday morning press conference at the Belgian Grand Prix, Audi revealed it will join the F1 grid as an engine manufacturer following the FIA’s finalisation of the next major power unit regulations in 2026.

It marks the first step in the Volkswagen Group’s F1 entry, with sister brand Porsche set to join Audi on the grid through a partnership with Red Bull.

Audi will develop its F1 engine at its base in Neuburg and will expand its personnel and infrastructure by the end of the year.

“Motorsport is an integral part of Audi’s DNA,” said Audi board chairman Markus Duesmann.

“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.”

Audi has been heavily linked with buying a majority stake in Sauber, who currently operate under the Alfa Romeo banner, but will make a “final decision” on a team partner before the end of the year.

Its long-awaited arrival comes after years of success in sportscars and Formula E, but as F1 pushes its commitment towards becoming carbon neutral by 2030 and using sustainable fuels, it proved an appealing proposition.

“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 fueled 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.”

In lights of Audi’s impending F1 entry, Alfa Romeo has announced it will end its partnership with Sauber at the end of 2023, just months after renewing its title sponsorship for next year.

Audi initially explored its options of linking up with an F1 team after holding talks with McLaren and Williams before finally settling on Sauber,

Now that Audi’s entry is official, it is likely Porsche will follow suit by announcing it will be teaming up with Red Bull.