ANKARA 

Audi will join Formula 1 in 2026 as a power unit manufacturer, the chairman of the German carmaker said on Friday.

In a statement, Markus Duesmann, the company’s chairman, said: “Motorsport is an integral part of Audi’s DNA.”

“Formula 1 is both a global stage for our brand and a highly challenging development laboratory. The combination of high performance and competition is always a driver of innovation and technology transfer in our industry. With the new rules, now is the right time for us to get involved. After all, Formula 1 and Audi both pursue clear sustainability goals,” Duesmann added.

A decision on which team Audi will be lining up with in 2026 will be announced by the end of this year.

F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said he is "delighted to welcome Audi to Formula 1, an iconic automotive brand, pioneer and technological innovator."

“This is a major moment for our sport that highlights the huge strength we have as a global platform that continues to grow," he added.

Oliver Hoffmann, board member for Technical Development at Audi, said: "In view of the major technological leaps that the series is making towards sustainability in 2026, we can speak of a new Formula 1. Formula 1 is transforming, and Audi wants to actively support this journey. A close link between our Formula 1 project and AUDI AG’s Technical Development department will enable synergies."