Audi will be making its Formula 1 debut in 2026, officially registering as a power-unit manufacturer, chairman of the board Markus Duesmann said on Friday.
At this stage, however, Audi has not revealed whether it will run its own team, or just supply engines in the way that Honda does for the Red Bull Racing team.
The German car manufacturer announced its entry into the sport at the Belgian Grand Prix conference in Spa.
According to a statement issued by Audi, “the key to getting involved in the world’s most popular racing series is the clear plan to become more sustainable and cost-efficient”.
New technical rules which will come into force from 2026 will focus on greater electrification and advanced sustainable fuel, Audi added.
Additionally, a cost cap on power unit manufacturers will be introduced from 2023, to add to the existing cap on cost for teams.
“Motorsport is an integral part of Audi’s DNA,” said Duesmann.
“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.”
F1 also set itself a target of becoming carbon-neutral by 2030.