The information was released by Audi at a press conference held in Spa before this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix, know the engine it will use in F1 as the power unit supplier
Audi, a German automaker, will start supplying power units to Formula 1 teams in the 2026 season. This follows the introduction of the new power unit rules, which were created particularly to make it attractive and feasible for new businesses to enter the sport on a competitive level.
Audi To Enter F1 In 2026 Season As Power Unit Supplier, To Use V6 Internal Combustion Engine Architecture
What made Audi to take this decision?
According to Audi, the primary factors in their decision were the 2026 power units, which would use the current V6 internal combustion engine architecture along with more electrical power and entirely sustainable fuels.
This is a significant time for the sport and it shows the tremendous strength they have as a rapidly expanding global platform. It is also a significant acknowledgement that the automobile industry will benefit from our transition to hybrid engines powered by sustainable fuels in 2026. All of us anticipate hearing and seeing the Audi emblem on the grid. They are all anticipating seeing the Audi emblem on the grid, and we will learn more about their plans in due course, said Domenicali.
BREAKING: Audi to join Formula 1 as a power unit supplier from 2026! 🚨 #F1 #Audi pic.twitter.com/e7eyZtodfF
— F1District (@F1District) August 26, 2022
CONFIRMED: Audi announces it will enter F1 as a power unit supplier in 2026 #F1
— Chris Medland (@ChrisMedlandF1) August 26, 2022
Audi announced a press conference at Belgian Grand Prix
In advance of this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix, Audi announced at a press conference at Spa. Speakers included Domenicali, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development Oliver Hoffmann, and Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG Markus Duesmann.
Duesmann discussed how F1 will drive their brand to grow in the highest level of motorsport competition during his remarks at the press conference. He also emphasised how the new power unit restrictions aid in their pursuit of sustainability.
Motorsport is ingrained in the DNA of Audi, he declared. Audi uses Formula 1 as both a worldwide stage and a very difficult development environment. In the F1 industry, innovation and the transfer of technology are always fueled by a combination of great performance and competition. The moment is right for them to become involved given the new regulations. After all, Audi and Formula 1 have distinct sustainability objectives.
Hoffmann echoed a similar viewpoint and said that they can speak of a new Formula 1 in 2026 given the significant technological advancements the sport is making towards sustainability. Audi wants to actively support the transformation of Formula 1. Synergies will be possible because of a close relationship between our Formula 1 project and the Technical Development division of AUDI AG.