Audi is on its way to Formula 1 in 2026… or not. Let us explain: the rumors of recent days indicate that the joint project with Sauber will change its identity to Porsche. Both brands are part of the Volkswagen Group, and the “Four Rings” has already denied this scenario.
In fact, Porsche considered a power unit supply program in F1 – which was abandoned, opting instead for endurance racing with the 963 LMDh. However, according to f1i.autojournal.fr, there may be a change – with the Audi designation being changed to Porsche in F1.
Former Audi CEO Markus Duesmann was the main responsible for the project in the premier class, but his successor Gernot Döllner does not show the same enthusiasm and admits to making this concession to Porsche. The Stuttgart manufacturer would not have to start from scratch, taking over everything at the point left by Audi.
However, in order to have enough resources for F1, Audi could cease activities in Formula E after 2025. Still, a potential rebranding process will not be simple, as the identity of all the work done so far will have to be changed.
On the other hand, Audi has already publicly stated that these rumors are unfounded, in a statement quoted by Motorsport.com: ‘Audi’s entry into Formula 1 in 2026 is based on a decision of the Audi AG Board, aligned with the Audi AG Supervisory Board, as well as the Volkswagen Group Supervisory Board. The schedule of Audi Formula Racing GmbH for the construction of the F1 organization and power unit development for 2026 at the Neuberg facilities in Germany remains unchanged’.
