Audi F1 entry in DOUBT as key figure set to leave position

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Audi F1 entry in DOUBT as key figure set to leave position

Audi are now looking to replace another key member of staff

Originally written by Cal Gaunt. This version is a translation.

Monday 26 February 2024 22:57

Audi chief development officer Oliver Hoffmann is reportedly on the verge of departing the company - having only recently taken over from Markus Deussman - due to differences with his CEO over future directions.

According to a report from German newspaper Bild, Hoffmann's long-term contract as CDO, signed last year, may be cut short as he's held responsible for Audi's struggling sales and delays in model releases.

The Audi Supervisory Board is set to discuss Hoffmann's situation on Thursday, with the Volkswagen Group's Supervisory Board expected to make the final decision in early March.

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The potential departure of Hoffmann could impact Audi's F1 plans, as Dollner contemplates moving him to the project. Hoffmann played a pivotal role in developing Audi's F1 entry for 2026, initially announced during the 2022 Belgian Grand Prix.

Oliver Hoffmann may be set to leave Audi

The situation unfolds amid lingering uncertainties about Audi's entry into F1 in 2026.

Audi F1 commitment questioned

Dollner publicly confirmed the plan in December 2023, but speculations persist about the company's commitment, possibly tied to Dollner's openness to selling Sauber shares, providing a financial exit strategy for Audi.

This uncertainty jeopardises Sauber's ability to attract top talent and the investment necessary for success in F1.

Reports of Hoffmann's potential move are as yet unverified.

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