the German team Audi announced this Friday, on the eve of Belgian Grand Prixwhich will join the paddock of Formula 1 from 2026, the year in which the legislation on power unit cycles will change again, as approved by Legislative Decree no. FIA In the past week.

With the incorporation of Audi into the great Formula 1 circus, the Volkswagen Group takes the first step in its foray into the premier category of motorsport, and will do so twice, as its sister brand Porsche will also enter the grid in 2026 thanks to the partnership with the Austrian team Red Bullwhile Audi could do the same with Sauberwhich currently competes under the name of Alfa Romeo.

At Audi they plan to start developing their new power units at their headquarters in Neuburg (Germany), and they will adamo bakerFIA safety director for the last three seasons as lead supervisor of the entire project, also drawing on his experience with the BMW team from 2005 until his eventual departure from F1 in 2009.

The president of Audi, Markus Duesmaninsured after the news was released “Motorsport is an integral part of Audi’s DNA”and defined the current Formula 1 as “a global stage” for the brand and as “a highly stimulating development laboratory”.

“With the new rules, now is the right time to enter. In the end, Formula 1 and Audi pursue clear sustainability goals, “acknowledged Duesmann.

For his part, the director of F1, Stefano Domenicalialso welcomed Audi’s announcement: “I am delighted to welcome Audi to Formula 1, an automotive brand iconic, pioneering and innovative technologically “.

“It is an important moment for our sport, which highlights the huge fortress we have as a global platform that continues to grow. It is a great recognition and a sign that our shift to sustainable fuel hybrid engines in 2026 it is a solution for the future of the automotive sector ”, highlighted the Italian director.

“We can’t wait to see everyone Audi brand on the grid and we will hear more details about their plans in due course, ”Domenicali said.

Source: EFE