Audi has confirmed that it has reached an agreement with Sauber to become its strategic partner from the 2026 Formula 1 season.
The deal will also see Audi acquire a majority stake in the Sauber Group, meaning Audi will run as a works team from 2026 onward.
The German manufacturer confirmed its F1 entry earlier this year, stating it would join the sport as a power unit supplier when the new regulations come into play.
While Audi will develop its own engine, Sauber will continue to develop and manufacture the car in Hinwil, while it will also be responsible for planning and executing race operations.
“We are delighted to have gained such an experienced and competent partner for our ambitious Formula 1 project,” says Oliver Hoffmann, Member of the Board for Technical Development at AUDI AG.
“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.”
Sauber has been in partnership with Alfa Romeo for the last handful of seasons, however the two parties will separate following the conclusion of the 2023 campaign.
Sauber will continue to run Ferrari power units after its Alfa Romeo partnership ends, before taking on the Audi engines in 2026.
“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 Alfa Romeo team boss Frederic 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 Formula 1.”
Sauber has competed in F1 since 1993 and has taken one victory in that time, which came via Robert Kubica at the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix when it ran as BMW Sauber.
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