Alessandro Alunni Bravi confirms Audi's unwavering commitment to Formula 1 in 2026

Recent speculations about Audi's dedication to their F1 project have emerged following their announcement over a year ago, signalling their intent to join the F1 circus when new technical regulations take effect.

Audi's impending arrival in the sport entail a significant partnership with the Sauber Group, who are currently affiliated with Alfa Romeo. While there have been limited communication from Audi since their initial announcement, Bravi explained that this silence is primarily out of respect for Alfa Romeo, with whom Sauber's partnership will conclude at the end of the current racing season.

"Audi has a strong commitment to Formula 1, of course, together with Sauber," Bravi assured, addressing the media. "This commitment comes from a decision not only of the board of Audi but also the advisory board of Audi and the Supervisory Board of Audi Volkswagen. It's a group decision, and the commitment is there."

He continued, "Why there is a lack of communication is simple. We are the Alfa Romeo F1 team. So until the end of the year, we have certain limitations in communicating about the team, about the future, about the involvement of Audi, and we fully respect Alfa Romeo for this. We don't want to make any kind of announcement or more than what is strictly related to the race and the championship. The commitment, as I said, is there. We are working hard to develop the structure of the team."

Sauber have made significant signings in preparation for Audi's arrival, including Andreas Seidl and James Key, both of whom recently departed from McLaren. However, Bravi clarified that Sauber's recruitment strategy extends beyond headline acquisitions, focusing on the upcoming F1 era in 2026.

"We have a strong recruitment plan in place," he emphasized. "James Key is one, but we have new appointments on a weekly basis. It's not a matter of the involvement of Audi in financing the team or sustaining this development process. We have two owners, two shareholders; there is a governance in place according to the different stages of the transaction that will be completed ahead of the 2026 season. We are proceeding with the investment plan with everything in accordance with the governance that has been agreed."

As the Formula 1 season progresses, all eyes are on this weekends Sao Paulo Grand Prix, featuring a Sprint Race scheduled for this weekend. The event will unfold at the 4.309-kilometre Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace in Brazil, where drivers will engage in 71 laps of exhilarating racing action. Formula 1 fans can eagerly anticipate this exciting event, with the knowledge that Audi's commitment to the sport in 2026 remains steadfast.

 

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