Audi has bought a stake within the Sauber Method 1 crew, forward of its plan to compete within the sport from 2026 as each a constructor and energy unit provider.
The acquisition was introduced on Monday by Sauber, which described the deal as a minority stake. We may probably see Audi regularly improve the stake within the lead as much as its 2026 entry in an effort to realize extra management of the crew.
Sauber at present competes in F1 as Alfa Romeo however the automaker final August introduced the association would finish after the 2023 season. Alfa Romeo hasn’t stated whether or not it’s quitting F1 altogether, although.
Audi first introduced plans to enter F1 final August and confirmed Sauber as its manufacturing unit crew two months later, after F1 finalized new sustainability measures ranging from 2026. Sauber can be accountable for the event and manufacturing of the crew’s F1 automobile, at its base in Hinwil, Switzerland. Sauber will even be accountable for planning and executing the race operations. Audi can be accountable for the facility unit. Sauber at present depends on Ferrari energy items.
Fellow Volkswagen Group model Porsche can also be eager to enter F1 with its personal energy unit and presumably a manufacturing unit crew. Porsche was in negotiations with Purple Bull Racing, although the talks ended final September with out a deal being brokered. Porsche has stated that it stays open to an F1 entry ought to the precise alternative come up.
Cadillac additionally introduced in January that it’s going to try to kind an F1 entry with Andretti International, the dad or mum firm of Andretti Autosport. Nevertheless, particulars in regards to the entry, together with timing, have not been introduced, other than the proposed crew being primarily based within the U.S. and having a assist facility within the U.Ok.
In the meantime, there are rumors that even Ford could also be excited by turning into a associate of main F1 crew Purple Bull Racing, as the game continues to realize recognition within the U.S.