Audi is gearing up for its Formula One debut in March, and the German car maker is confident that it has what it takes to compete for race wins and titles in the near future. According to Audi CEO Gernot Dollner, the company’s success in other racing series is a testament to its ability to perform well in F1. Audi is entering the sport as a works team, having acquired the Swiss Sauber outfit, and has assembled a strong team, including former Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto as its Formula One project manager.
The company’s decision to enter F1 was influenced by the sweeping rule changes from 2026 onwards, including new hybrid engines and a cost cap, which makes financial planning easier. Dollner believes that the timing of Audi’s entry into F1 is ideal, stating that “the entry into Formula One was never better in the past 30 years with this rule change.” Audi has also received additional capital for its F1 program from the Qatar Investment Authority as a minority stakeholder.
Audi is committed to doing everything in-house, including developing its own power unit, unlike other new teams such as Cadillac, which will be using Ferrari engines. Binotto is optimistic about the team’s chances, stating that “for Audi, it is not about participating but winning.” Dollner has outlined a roadmap for the team’s success, with the goal of being competitive by 2028 and driving for titles from 2030 onwards.
The team’s livery will be formally presented on January 20, and pre-season tests for drivers Nico Hülkenberg and Gebriel Bortoleto will start six days later in Barcelona. The season is set to begin on March 8 in Australia. Hülkenberg, who achieved his maiden podium finish at the British Grand Prix last season, is cautiously optimistic about the team’s prospects, stating that while it’s difficult to predict the future, the conditions are in place for the team to be competitive as quickly as possible.
Audi’s entry into F1 is expected to bring a new level of competition to the sport, and the company’s commitment to success is evident in its investment and personnel. With a strong team in place and a clear roadmap for success, Audi is poised to make a significant impact in the world of Formula One. Team principal Jonathan Wheatley has said that he is not stressed about the challenges ahead, and Dollner believes that the company can learn a lot from the fast-paced and challenging world of F1.