This follows the release of new powerplant regulations earlier this month, specifically designed to support and attract newcomers to the sport at a competitive level.
The 2026 powerplant will retain the current V6 combustion engine architecture, but with higher electric power and 100 percent sustainable fuel, two factors Audi says are key to joining.
Audi, part of the Volkswagen Group, added that it also backed F1’s plans to improve sustainability and cost-effectiveness, introducing a cost cap for powerplant makers in 2023, with F1 set to achieve “net-zero CO2 emissions by 2030” “The goal.
“I am delighted to welcome Audi to Formula 1, an iconic car brand, pioneer and technological innovator,” said F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali, who has been with Volkswagen since 2014. “This is an important moment for our sport and highlights the tremendous strength we have as a growing global platform.
“This is also a major endorsement of our move to a sustainable-electric hybrid engine in 2026, the future solution for the automotive industry. We are all looking forward to seeing the Audi logo on the track and will hear from them in due course More details on their plans.”
Audi announced its 2026 qualification at a press conference in Spa ahead of this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix, with Audi AG CEO Marcus Duesmann, CTO Oliver Hoffmann, and more. Menicali and FIA President Mohammad bin Sulayem attended the meeting.
The manufacturer said it will announce a decision on which team it will compete with “by the end of 2026.”
The powerplant was developed at Audi Sport’s plant in Newburgh, the first time an F1 powertrain has been built in Germany in more than a decade.
“Motorsport is an integral part of Audi’s DNA,” said Duesman. “Formula 1 is both a global stage for our brand and a demanding development laboratory. The combination of high performance and competition has always been a driver of innovation and technology transfer in our industry. With the new rules, now is a good time for us to step in …because both Formula 1 and Audi are pursuing clear sustainability goals.”
Hoffmann added: “Given the series’ major technological leap in sustainability in 2026, we can speak of the new Formula 1. Formula 1 is changing and Audi wants to actively support this path. Bringing us The close integration of our Formula 1 project with the technical development of AUDI AG will create synergies.”
Audi says Neuburg already has test benches for F1 engine testing as well as electric motor and battery testing. Work is currently underway to provide staff, buildings and technical infrastructure by the end of the year. Then they have three years to improve the PU before moving on to Formula 1.
Adam Baker, who has held various management positions at manufacturers and teams in motorsport, as well as three years with the FIA, will lead the Formula 1 programme as CEO.