German manufacturer Audi will enter into the world of Formula 1 from the 2026 world championship onwards as a power unit supplier.
The car giant's power unit will be built in Neuberg, Germany, for it to be ready by 2026 when the new engine regulations come into force, which are designed to make it possible and attractive for newcomers to enter the sport.
Audi's announcement comes on the eve of this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix at the iconic Spa circuit - with confirmation coming on Friday morning during a press conference that FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem and F1 chief Stefano Domenicali attended, as well as Audi chairman Markus Duesmann.
Audi also announced they would make a decision on which team they will partner "by the end of this year", amid heavy speculation that the manufacturer has been in talks with Swiss-based Sauber Group who currently compete under the Alfa Romeo moniker.
The Volkswagen Group's big F1 plans had been in the news for a while now, but finally the green light was given over the new power unit regulations which gave Audi a clear run at announcing their entrance.
Domenicali, F1 president and CEO, said: "I am delighted to welcome Audi to Formula 1, an iconic automotive brand, pioneer and technological innovator.
"This is a major moment for our sport that highlights the huge strength we have as a global platform that continues to grow."
The power units from 2026 onwards will keep the current V6 internal combustion engine architecture but will also consist of more electrical power and 100% sustainable fuels - two major components that played a part in Audi joining F1.
Domenicali continued: “It is also a big recognition that our move to sustainably fuelled hybrid engines in 2026 is a future solution for the automotive sector. We are all looking forward to seeing the Audi logo on the grid and will be hearing further details from them on their plans in due course."
Meanwhile, Audi chairman Duesmann added: "Formula 1 is both a global stage for our brand and a highly challenging development laboratory.
"The combination of high performance and competition is always a driver of innovation and technology transfer in our industry. With the new rules, now is the right time for us to get involved."
Adam Baker, a former employee of F1's governing body and a motorsport veteran, will oversee Audi's new project.
