Audi is not just stepping into the Formula 1 arena; it’s making a power move to dominate it. Amidst whispers of internal upheaval within its management, the Volkswagen-backed powerhouse is doubling down on its F1 aspirations for 2026. Sauber’s liaison, Alessandro Alunni Bravi, has put to bed any doubts about Audi’s resolve, highlighting the “strong commitment of the Audi Group” to their F1 venture.
In a bold stride taken in late 2022, Audi agreed to ultimately clinch a 75% stake in the Sauber team, signaling its grand ambitions on the F1 circuit. But it seems that was just the opening act. A recent revelation from Bloomberg has set the paddock buzzing with news that Audi’s ambitions are sky-high, aiming for an outright acquisition of Sauber to claim 100% ownership.
Queried about this aggressive expansion, a Sauber spokesperson painted the picture of a future where Audi is not just a participant but a pillar of F1, stating the acquisition is “an important milestone on the way to Audi’s entry in Formula 1 in 2026, for which the Sauber Group will be the brand’s strategic partner and its works team.” Yet, when it comes to the intricacies of the team’s ownership dynamics, Sauber is keeping cards close to its chest, “We do not further comment about the team’s shareholding structure at this time,” was all the spokesperson would divulge.
Currently competing under the moniker ‘Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber,’ the team’s identity is poised for a transformation as Audi gears up to imprint its legacy on the F1 world stage.
