SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Dec. 18, 2024 – Audi's journey to Formula 1 just got a major boost with a strategic investment from the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA). This partnership signifies a strong vote of confidence in Audi's F1 project and will accelerate the team's development as it prepares for its debut in the 2026 season.
QIA: A Long-Term Partner for Audi F1
QIA, the sovereign wealth fund of the State of Qatar, has acquired a significant minority stake in Sauber Holding AG, the entity that will become Audi's factory team in Formula 1. This investment represents a long-term commitment from QIA and will provide Audi with the necessary resources to compete at the highest level of motorsport.
"The investment by QIA reflects the trust and confidence the Audi F1 Project has already garnered, underscoring unwavering commitment of Audi to the initiative. This additional capital will accelerate the team’s growth and is yet another milestone on our long-term strategy. QIA’s involvement further energizes the dedicated efforts at both the Hinwil and Neuburg facilities as they work towards the entry of Audi in 2026." - Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sauber Motorsport AG
Accelerating Development and Infrastructure
The investment from QIA will be crucial in bolstering Audi's F1 preparations. The funds will be used to expand personnel, enhance facilities in both Neuburg and Hinwil, and further develop the team's performance capabilities. This will ensure that Audi is well-equipped to challenge the established frontrunners in Formula 1.
A Strategic Alignment
The partnership between Audi and QIA is a strategic fit for both organizations. QIA seeks investments with long-term growth potential, and Formula 1's global expansion and increasing commercialization make it an attractive prospect. For Audi, QIA's investment provides a solid foundation for its ambitious F1 endeavors.
"Audi is a premium partner of choice with a rich motorsport legacy. As a long-standing investor in the Volkswagen Group, we believe in Audi’s vision and direction when entering Formula 1 and our investment will support the realization of this goal. QIA believes that Formula 1 is a sport with significant untapped investment potential. The increasing commercialization of professional sports as an entertainment offering globally, and the increasingly global popularity of Formula 1, has made for an exciting opportunity for our first major motorsports investment.”- Mohammed Al-Sowaidi, CEO of QIA
Building Momentum for 2026
Audi's Formula 1 project has been steadily gaining momentum. The team has secured talented drivers like Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hülkenberg, finalized the takeover of Sauber, and appointed key personnel like Mattia Binotto and Jonathan Wheatley to leadership positions. The investment from QIA adds another significant milestone to this journey.
Audi's Commitment to Motorsport
Audi has a rich history in motorsport, and its entry into Formula 1 marks a new chapter in this legacy. The brand is committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and performance, and its participation in Formula 1 will showcase its engineering prowess on a global stage.
The Future of Formula 1
Formula 1 is undergoing a period of significant growth and evolution. The sport's increasing popularity, coupled with new regulations emphasizing sustainable fuels and hybrid technology, makes it an exciting platform for innovation and competition. Audi's entry into Formula 1, with the support of QIA, is a testament to the sport's bright future.