Audi has launched its own driver development program, with the goal of finding and nurturing young talent to compete in Formula 1. The program will be led by Allan McNish, a former Formula 1 driver and endurance racing champion, who will serve as its director. McNish has a long history with Audi, having competed for the brand in various forms of motorsport, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the World Endurance Championship.
The program is part of Audi’s ambitious plan to challenge for Formula 1 titles by the 2030 season, its fifth year in the sport. The team has already made significant strides, signing experienced driver Nico Hulkenberg and young talent Gabriel Bortoleto. However, with the acquisition of the Sauber Group, Audi recognized the need to establish its own junior driver program to develop and promote young drivers to senior Formula 1 seats.
McNish is tasked with identifying and developing young drivers who possess not only raw speed but also the resilience, intelligence, and team-driven mindset required to succeed at the highest level. The program aims to provide a pathway for talented young drivers to progress and ultimately compete for Audi in Formula 1.
Audi’s team principal, Jonathan Wheatley, emphasized the importance of investing in young talent, stating that the driver development program is a key pillar of the team’s Formula 1 strategy. With McNish at the helm, the program is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of Audi in Formula 1 and helping the team achieve its goal of becoming a competitive force in the sport.
The launch of the driver development program marks an exciting new chapter for Audi in Formula 1, and the team is eager to identify and nurture the next generation of talented drivers. With McNish’s expertise and guidance, the program is well-positioned to succeed and provide a platform for young drivers to achieve their dreams of competing at the highest level. As Audi continues to build its Formula 1 team, the driver development program will be an essential component of its long-term strategy, providing a pipeline of talented young drivers to compete for the team in the years to come.