Audi is gearing up for its Formula 1 debut in 2026, and behind the scenes, significant changes are taking place. The German manufacturer is investing in Sauber’s infrastructure and personnel to bridge the gap between themselves and established teams like Mercedes, Ferrari, and Honda. According to CTO Mattia Binotto, the team was initially “paralysed” when he arrived, and now they are working to build a strong foundation.
One area of focus is the development of their engine, which will debut in 2026. With established teams having experience, personnel, and facilities, Audi’s engine will likely be a serviceable one rather than a game-changer. To achieve this, the team is building a new technology center in the UK, which will facilitate an expansion of their workforce and drive innovation.
The addition of 300 new employees is expected, bringing the total staff count to over 600. This expansion will help the team build on their recent success, particularly with the addition of Nico Hulkenberg and the potential of Gabriel Bortoleto. If the team can build a strong package for their drivers, they could be competitive in the coming seasons.
However, it’s a tall task ahead, considering they are still working to catch up with the leading teams. Meanwhile, Haas, which has a smaller staff, has shown they can outperform Sauber. Audi will need to focus on closing the gap and establishing themselves as a strong, competitive team. With significant investment and infrastructure changes underway, they are taking the necessary steps to position themselves for success in the future.