Sauber announces an agreement with Audi as a strategic partner for Formula 1. The new Audi motorized team will debut in 2026.
With a press release published on the official website, Sauber Motorsport announced that it has reached an agreement with Audi AG to become a strategic partner in the German manufacturer’s program for Formula 1.
Audiafter announcing the intention to enter the highest level of motorsport in conjunction with the introduction of the new rules for the engines of the 2026he therefore chose Sauber Motorsport as an official team and stable.
Recall that in recent years Sauber has raced with the brand Alfa Romeo: an agreement that will last until the 2023 season and will not be renewed afterwards. In 2024 and 2025 the Swiss team will therefore race independently, while maintaining the current supply of engines Ferrari.
Sauber: from Alfa Romeo to Audi, the objectives of the new team
The goal of the partnership, as stated by Sauber itself, is to take the team to new levelswhile ensuring a long-term future for the company that will be able to rely on an experienced workforce, one of Europe’s leading wind tunnels and globally recognized motorsport facilities.
Finn RausingChairman of the Board of Directors of Sauber Holding AG, stated: “Audi is the best strategic partner for the Sauber group. It is clear that we share values and a vision and are looking forward to achieving our common goals with a strong and successful partnership“.
Satisfied too Frédéric VasseurCEO and Team Principal of the Sauber team: “The partnership between Audi AG and Sauber Motorsport is a critical step for our team as we continue to make progress towards the front of the grid. Become the Audi official team it is not only an honor and a great responsibility, but also the best option for the future and we are fully confident that we can help Audi achieve the goals they have set for their Formula 1 journey.“.
Finally, it closes Oliver Hoffmannboard member of Audi AG and responsible for the manufacturer’s F1 program: “We are delighted to have acquired such an experienced and knowledgeable partner for our ambitious Formula 1 project. We already know the Sauber group with its state-of-the-art facility and experienced team from old partnerships and are convinced that together we will form a strong team.“.
Sauber is a Swiss-born Formula 1 team that debuted for the first time in 1993. From 2006 to 2009 the team was sold to BMWwhich nevertheless kept the name, before returning in 2010 to the owner, Peter Sauber, who then sold the team to investment firm Longbow Finance SA.
The best placement obtained in the constructors’ championship was the fourth place in 2001. The driver with the best results was Sergio Pereztoday in Red Bull, which recorded a fastest lap and three podiums in the 2011 and 2021 seasons. Currently, the Swiss team has never won a Grand Prix.
