As Audi work to put themselves in the best position for their F1 debut in 2026, there are big changes underway behind the scenes. Investment into Sauber’s infrastructure and an influx in personnel will be on their to-do list.
The German manufacturer is aware that Audi could be at a disadvantage in 12 months time – minimising this deficit is essential.
Why Audi expect to be on the defensive in 2026
There is every reason for Audi to be excited about their long-term prospects in Formula 1.
Considering their financial firepower, the German brand can build on Sauber’s foundations and create a top team.
However, the road ahead is a long one. Due to a combination of factors, there were still some question marks about the fine details of Audi’s Sauber takeover last season.
Mattia Binotto, Audi CTO, described the team as ‘paralysed’ when he first arrived.
Because of this, the German manufacturer are still working to bridge the gap to more established teams.
This point is especially relevant for the Audi engine – which will debut in 2026. Even with ideal preparation, keeping up with the likes of Mercedes, Ferrari and Honda would be a huge task.
All these engine suppliers have the experience, personnel and facilities that Audi are still working to implement.
In the context of the German brand’s bumpy road so far, the aim for 2026 is to produce a serviceable engine – rather than a ground-breaking one.
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Haas, who comfortably outperformed Sauber last year, are operating with just 300 employees. This is less than half of the staff currently working at the Swiss team.
So whilst Sauber need to grow in size, they certainly aren’t working with a deficit comparable to their US rivals.
Then again, unlike Haas, the Hinwil-based squad are in the process of transitioning into a manufacturer team. Running such an operation, it goes without saying, provides a far greater challenge for Audi.
Reinforcements on the way
Audi aren’t wasting any time with in assembling the necessary pieces to be competitive in 2026.
Like many other teams on the grid, the German manufacturer are building a new technology centre in the UK.
Previously, with their base in Switzerland, Sauber were one of just a handful of teams without a presence in the ‘Motorsport Valley’.
As Mattia Binotto explains, the construction of a base in the UK provides a series of advantages:
“We are excited to establish out technical centre in the UK to complement our key site in Hinwil, which will continue to lead our main engineering operations and experience the largest team growth.
“Expanding into the UK allows us to remain close to one of the world’s most dynamic motorsport ecosystems.
“Our vision is to create a strong, collaborative network across Hinwil and the UK, driving innovation and performance.”
This base will facilitate an expansion of the team’s workforce, which according to Auto Motor und Sport will see the arrival of an additional 300 employees.
The team’s Las Vegas update package in the dying rounds of the 2024 will give them some hope for this year’s campaign.
With the experience of Nico Hulkenberg and undeniable potential of Gabriel Bortoleto, Audi will have a strong driver partnership for the next two seasons.
It will be their responsibility to give them a strong package.
