Sauber has come to an agreement with Audi to make the Swiss Formula One operation the works team of the German manufacturer from 2026.
Prior to the Mexican Grand Prix, Audi said that Sauber – which is currently running under the Alfa Romeo banner – will become its ‘strategic partner’ for the F1 programme and that the company also plans to acquire a stake in the Sauber Group.
“We are delighted to have gained such an experienced and competent partner for our ambitious Formula 1 project,” commented Oliver Hoffmann, Audi AG Board Member responsible for the F1 programme.
“We already know the Sauber Group with its state-of-the-art facility and experienced team from previous collaborations and are convinced that together we will form a strong team.”
Audi originally announced in August that it will join the sport as a power unit supplier, when new regulations that feature increased electrical power and 100% sustainable fuels will be introduced in four years.
Sauber Motorsport CEO and Team Principal, Fred Vasseur, added: “The partnership between Audi AG and Sauber Motorsport is a key step for our team as we continue to make progress towards the front of the grid.
“To become Audi’s official works team is not only an honour and a great responsibility: it’s the best option for the future and we are fully confident we can help Audi achieve the objectives they have set for their journey in Formula One.”
Ahead of Audi’s arrival, Alfa Romeo will end title sponsorship of Sauber at the end of the 2023 campaign. The Swiss team will continue to use Ferrari power units through to the end of 2025, before taking on Audi power for the following campaign.
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of F1, explained that the deal highlights the ‘strong momentum’ that the sport has, as well as its belief in the strategy to further grow whilst delivering its sustainability plans to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030.
“We look forward to seeing their progress over the coming years and the car on the grid for the team’s first race,” he concluded.
