Audi entry bolsters F1's "strong momentum"

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has hailed the partnership between Audi and Sauber with the union adding credence to the sport's growing momentum.

Audi confirmed on Wednesday morning that the manufacturer will join forces with Sauber ahead of the 2026 season, the announcement coming after it was revealed during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend that it would become a power unit supplier from that year.

This will be the first truly new manufacturer entry into the sport since 2016 when Renault returned to the paddock - Alpine representing a rebranding exercise for the Renault Group more than a fresh start in 2021.

“It is great news to hear that Audi will have a partnership with Sauber for their entry into Formula 1 in 2026," said Domenicali.

"The combination of those two names is a very exciting prospect for our sport. It highlights the strong momentum that Formula 1 has and the belief in our strategy to further grow and enhance the sport while delivering on our sustainability plans to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030 with advanced sustainable fuels in the cars in 2026.

"We look forward to seeing their progress over the coming years and the car on the grid for the team’s first race."

Alfa Romeo will continue to sever its ties with Sauber at the end of the 2023 season and the team has confirmed it will honour its existing agreement to run Ferrari power units until its first year racing as the Audi works team.

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