German manufacturer Audi will join the Formula 1 World Championship from the 2026 season as a power unit supplier.
It comes after new power unit regulations were published earlier this month, designed specifically to make it possible and attractive for newcomers to join the sport at a competitive level.
The 2026 power units will retain the current V6 internal combustion engine architecture, but will feature greater electric power and 100% sustainable fuels, two factors Audi says were key to joining.
LIVESTREAM: Tune in for a very special announcement at the Belgian Grand Prix as Audi reveals plans to enter F1 2026
Audi, part of the Volkswagen Group, added that it also supports F1’s plans to become more sustainable and cost-effective, with a cost cap for power unit manufacturers introduced in 2023 and F1 setting the target to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030.
“I am delighted to welcome Audi to Formula 1, an iconic, pioneering and technologically innovative car brand,” said F1 chairman and chief executive Stefano Domenicali, who worked for Volkswagen for a period in from 2014. “This is an important moment for our sport. This highlights the great strength we have as a global platform that continues to grow.
“It’s also great recognition that our move to sustainable fuel hybrid engines in 2026 is a future solution for the automotive industry. We’re all looking forward to seeing the Audi logo on the grille and will hear more from them about his plans in his time.”
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Audi announced its 2026 entry at a press conference in Spa ahead of this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix, which was attended by Chairman of the Board of Directors of AUDI AG Markus Duesmann, member of the Technical Development Management Board Oliver Hoffmann, Domenicali and FIA. President Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
The manufacturer said it will announce a decision later this year on which team it will “line up in 2026”.
Audi Sport’s Neuburg facility will be where the power unit will be developed, marking the first time in more than a decade that an F1 powertrain will be built in Germany.
“Motorsport is an integral part of Audi’s DNA,” said Duesmann. “Formula 1 is both a global stage for our brand and a very challenging development laboratory. The combination of high performance and competition is always a driver of innovation and technology transfer in our industry. With the new rules , now is the right time to get involved. After all, Formula 1 and Audi are pursuing clear sustainability goals.”
Audi has a rich motoring history, with 13 wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans
Hoffmann added: “In view of the great technological leaps that the series is making towards sustainability in 2026, we can talk about a new Formula 1. Formula 1 is transforming, and Audi wants to actively support this journey . A close link between our Formula 1 project and the technical development department of AUDI AG will enable synergies.”
Audi says there are already test benches for F1 engine testing, as well as electric motor and battery testing at its Neuburg base. They are currently working to secure staff, buildings and technical infrastructure by the end of the year. They will then have three years to fine-tune the PU before entering F1.
Adam Baker, who has held a number of senior positions for manufacturers and teams in motorsport while also spending three years at the FIA, will lead the Formula 1 project as managing director.