Audi announces BP as strategic partner for 2026 F1 entry

This partnership marks a crucial development as Audi gears up to join the elite motorsport series, with BP set to play a vital role in ensuring the team's success on the track.

BP, a global oil and energy giant, will supply Audi with 100 per cent sustainable fuels starting in 2026. The move aligns with Formula 1's new engine regulations, which mandate the use of sustainable fuels as a key component of the sport's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.

In addition to sustainable fuels, BP, through its Castrol brand, will provide Audi with high-performance lubricants and greases.

Audi's entry into Formula 1 will see the company take over the existing Sauber outfit, which currently sits at the bottom of the 2024 F1 Constructors' Championship.

The partnership with BP is expected to provide Audi with the necessary resources and technological support to elevate the team's performance.

The announcement also highlighted BP's extensive experience in the sport, having worked with the Alpine team since 2017.

This collaboration is expected to bring valuable insights and expertise to Audi's F1 programme.

"Audi and bp have always worked together successfully in motorsport. We are delighted that we can take this special partnership to the next level in Formula 1," said Audi CEO Andreas Seidl.

"Audi stands for 'Vorsprung durch Technik' and bp and Castrol also aspire to deliver the best technologies in the field of fuels and lubricants. This is a perfect match.

"It is a strong signal for Audi's future F1 factory team that we have been able to establish this partnership at such an early stage.

"We sense the appeal of the Audi F1 Project and how many renowned companies want to work with Audi in Formula 1."

In a bid to strengthen its driver lineup, Audi has signed Nico Hulkenberg from Haas.

However, the identity of Hulkenberg's teammate remains undisclosed, with potential candidates including Carlos Sainz and Esteban Ocon. The final decision is eagerly awaited by fans and pundits alike.

"We are proud that Audi has once again chosen to partner with bp and Castrol, this time for their entry into Formula 1," said Nicola Buck, SVP marketing, BP.

"It gives our premium brands the opportunity to showcase our technical expertise at the pinnacle of motorsport.

"We are already making great progress with the Audi F1 Project on the development of the bp fuel and Castrol lubricants as we seek to innovate and unlock maximum engine performance for the Audi F1 Power Unit from 2026."