Audi F1 Project Strengthened by Investment from QIA

Audi has joined forces with the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) to expedite the preparation for its Formula 1 debut in 2026. QIA, which is the sovereign wealth fund of the State of Qatar, has made a significant move by acquiring a substantial minority stake in Sauber Holding AG, the entity responsible for Audi's future Formula 1 factory team.

QIA's Role as a Long-Term Partner

With this investment, QIA becomes a key long-term investor and strategic partner in Audi's Formula 1 ambitions. This collaboration is poised to play a vital role in shaping the future of Audi's presence in the sport, ensuring sustained growth and success in the long run.

Strengthening Audi's F1 Team with Capital Investment

QIA’s financial involvement is set to provide a considerable capital boost, enabling Audi to enhance its infrastructure and team development. These improvements are essential for the team's competitive performance and will be crucial in achieving long-term success in Formula 1. This partnership aligns with QIA’s investment strategy, which focuses on high-growth potential ventures.

Formula 1's Expanding Global Influence

Formula 1 continues to experience rapid growth, with increasing global expansion, deeper fan engagement, and a wealth of commercial opportunities. Audi’s entry into the sport with a factory team in 2026 comes at a time when F1’s popularity is surging, presenting immense upside potential for the brand.

Enhancing Audi’s F1 Facilities and Team Development

Audi’s facilities in Neuburg and Hinwil are undergoing further development to meet the rigorous standards required for Formula 1 success. Recent developments, such as the confirmation of Gabriel Bortoleto (20) as a driver alongside Nico Hülkenberg (37), mark significant steps forward in Audi’s Formula 1 journey.

Key Milestones in Audi's F1 Strategy

The acquisition of Sauber in March, along with the appointment of key personnel such as Mattia Binotto as Chief Technical Officer (CTO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO), and Jonathan Wheatley as team principal starting mid-2024, demonstrate Audi’s commitment to the project. These milestones highlight Audi’s determination to establish itself as a strong contender in the world of Formula 1.

Gernot Döllner, CEO of AUDI AG and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sauber Motorsport AG: “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.”

Mohammed Al-Sowaidi, CEO of QIA: “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.”

The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals.