There is no better way to resume the season after the month-long "summer break" with some big news in the world of Formula One. This weekend we return to racing for round 14 at the Belgian Grand Prix. It is at the historic Spa-Francorchamps that Audi announces their entrance for the 2026 season.
Changes in major regulations that govern the sport will be in effect in 2026. These new rules have encouraged participation from the German luxury manufacturer. Amongst them, the most important is the emphasis on long-term sustainability. What does the future hold for Audi being at the pinnacle of motorsport for the first time?
2026 is the magic year
Audi and the Volkswagen Group have been considering Formula for several years. Yet, it is the changes in 2026 season that served as the catalyst to give the green light. Two key rule changes have stimulated new interest across the automotive landscape.
The 2026 regulations will see the largest revision to the V-6 turbo hybrid engine since their introduction in 2013. A new sustainable fuel reduces consumption by half compared to 2013. This new fuel is a byproduct of biological materials and municipal waste.
The hybrid battery unit will be more important than ever as well. In the 2022 season, the MGU-K (hybrid battery unit) makes about 160 horsepower. For 2026, this same unit will produce over 544 horsepower, over three times the output. This changes allows the cars to over 1,000 horsepower with twice the efficiency compared to 2013. With Formula One set to be carbon-neutral by 2030, Audi believes the sport and the brand's goals are in alignment.
The sacrifices of Formula One
Audi stated that they will decide on which team they will partner with by the end of the year. Yet, every factor indicates that they will be joining Sauber F1 for the 2026 season. Sauber's current partner in Formula One is Alfa Romeo. They announced today that their mutual relationship will end the 2023 season. As a result, Audi looks to take their place.
Yet, that will not be the only causality as a result of their newfound involvement. Audi's LMDh project for the World Endurance Championship will see discontinuation. As the brand continues to adapt to a changing landscape, so does their motorsport focus.
Their VW Group sister company, Porsche, also has announced their participation in the sport for the 2026 season. They will team with last season’s champions, Red Bull Racing. What a spectacle to see Mercedes, Audi, and Porsche all gracing the Formula One grid. Doesn't BMW feel lonely? We guess somehow it doesn't fit into their current corporate strategy. What a shame. Regardless, these new changes make the sport more competitive and exciting for both teams and fans alike.