Audi acquires Sauber completely ahead of its own Formula 1 team debut in 2026. Instead of acquiring 75% of Sauber as originally planned, Audi will now take full ownership of the Switzerland-based racing team. This decision allows Audi to increase its stake in the team and also focus on developing its first F1 engine in Germany.
Sauber CEO Andreas Seidl has been advocating for Audi to take on a larger role in the team for some time. Recognizing the urgency to improve the team’s performance by 2026, Seidl successfully convinced Audi to increase their investment beyond the initial agreement. This decision is seen as a way to accelerate preparations for the upcoming season.
With Audi taking full control of Sauber, they can take advantage of higher capital expenditure limits allowed within the cost cap. Additionally, a currency adjustment to Switzerland will help reduce the wage gap between teams based in Switzerland and the UK, making it easier for Audi to hire personnel.
As part of the announcement, Audi has established a specific management structure for its F1 project. Seidl will serve as CEO of Audi’s F1 team, overseeing the project implementation and managing the team itself. Oliver Hoffmann will be in charge of the overall program and will also become chairman of the Sauber companies’ board.
While this may seem like a new appointment, it has been known for some time that Seidl’s move to Sauber from McLaren was with the intention of eventually taking on this role in Audi’s F1 project. The goal is to make Sauber competitive both in Hinwil and Neuburg, and the complete acquisition by Audi will help accelerate the realization of these ambitions.
The importance of these personnel changes is emphasized by Manfred Doss, chairman of the supervisory board of Audi, who describes entering F1 as a sporting challenge and a financial commitment. By consolidating responsibilities under Oliver Hoffmann and fully acquiring Sauber, Audi is accelerating its preparations for the 2026 season.
