Audi confirms Sauber Motorsports as 'strategic partner' for 2026 Formula One entry
- Heinrich Griessel
- 26 October 2022
German car manufacturer Audi has officially announced Sauber Motorsports as its works partner for the 2026 Formula One season.
Audi revealed in August, over the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, that it would enter Formula 1 in 2026, but they did not yet disclose who the partner team would be.
"This partnership will bring the team to new heights, guaranteeing at the same time the long-term future of the company - an entity that boasts a committed workforce, one of Europe's leading wind tunnels and world-class motorsport manufacturing facilities," a statement from Sauber read.
In addition to the partnership, Sauber also confirmed that Audi will buy a stake in the company. It's not yet known how large the shareholding will be.
Chairman of the board of Sauber Holdings Finn Rausing said: "Audi is the best strategic partner for the Sauber Group. It is clear that we share values and a vision, and we look forward to achieving our common goals in a strong and successful partnership."
Sauber team principal Fred Vasseur is thrilled to be partnering with Audi and believes it will help drive them towards the front of the grid.
"The partnership between Audi AG and Sauber Motorsport is a key step for our team as we continue to make progress towards the front of the grid," said Vasseur.
"To become Audi's official works team is not only an honour and a great responsibility: it's the best option for the future, and we are fully confident we can help Audi achieve the objectives they have set for their journey in F1."
Oliver Hoffmann, who is an Audi board member and the man in charge of the F1 project, is equally thrilled to have secured Sauber as their "strategic partner".
"We are delighted to have gained such an experienced and competent partner for our ambitious F1 project," said Hoffman.
"We already know the Sauber Group with its state-of-the-art facility and experienced team from previous collaborations, and are convinced that together we will form a strong team."
