Breaking his silence, Audi’s new CEO Gernot Dollner has put an end to swirling rumors regarding Audi’s entry into Formula 1. In a much-awaited development, Dollner, who recently concluded a 100-day confidentiality period from his previous role, confirmed Audi’s much-anticipated F1 venture with Sauber in 2026.
Speaking to the German business newspaper Handelsblatt, Dollner gave his first interview as the head of the Volkswagen-linked carmaker. He addressed the ongoing speculations head-on, affirming, “There is a clear decision of the board of directors, and of the supervisory boards of Audi and Volkswagen, that Audi will enter Formula 1 in 2026.”
This confirmation follows Audi’s strategic move of acquiring a 25 percent stake in the Hinwil-based Sauber team, which will ramp up to 75 percent control by 2026. “The plan is in place,” Dollner added, cementing Audi’s commitment to the high-profile world championship.
Contrary to the whispers that Dollner viewed F1 as an extravagant expenditure for Audi, he indicated that the venture is well-aligned with his broader business objectives. Focusing on the exploding American market, Dollner revealed, “We want to sell significantly more cars in the USA and other markets. We want to strengthen North America as a third pillar alongside Europe and China.”
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