Audi has named bp as the first official partner of its factory team ahead of its entry into Formula 1 in 2026.
Under the agreement, bp and its specialist lubricants business Castrol will work closely with Audi, as it prepares for its entry into the F1 in 2026. The companies have been working together for almost two years, co-engineering bp fuels and Castrol lubricants to enable maximum performance from the Audi F1 Power Unit.
This partnership is particularly timely, as the company is making its debut amidst significant regulatory changes in Formula 1. According to the FIA F1 Technical Regulations for 2026, the use of Advanced Sustainable fuel will be mandatory. This fuel must achieve at least a 65% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil-derived petrol.
Andreas Seidl, CEO of the Audi F1 team, commented: “Audi and bp have always worked together successfully in motorsport. We are delighted that we can take this special partnership to the next level in Formula 1. Audi stands for ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ and bp and Castrol also aspire to deliver the best technologies in the field of fuels and lubricants.
“This is a perfect match. It is a strong signal for Audi’s future F1 factory team that we have been able to establish this partnership at such an early stage. We sense the appeal of the Audi F1 Project and how many renowned companies want to work with Audi in Formula 1.”
The partnership also includes marketing and branding rights for bp, Castrol and Aral brands, bp’s leading fuel and retail brand in Germany.
Nicola Buck, SVP of Marketing at bp, said: “We are proud that Audi has once again chosen to partner with bp and Castrol, this time for their entry into Formula 1. It gives our premium brands the opportunity to showcase our technical expertise at the pinnacle of motorsport.
“We are already making great progress with the Audi F1 Project on the development of the bp fuel and Castrol lubricants as we seek to innovate and unlock maximum engine performance for the Audi F1 Power Unit from 2026.”
