Audi sacking F1 project architects a bad sign for 2026

German carmaker Audi decided to compete in Formula 1 from 2026. The auto giant made this announcement two years ago with the intention of acquiring the Sauber F1 team. Now, with just 18 months left before Audi’s official debut at the pinnacle of motorsport, the carmaker has made some major changes to the F1 division.

Audi’s Chief Technical Officer Oliver Hoffmann was believed to be the architect behind the carmaker’s F1 ambitions. Hoffmann even brought in then-McLaren team boss Andreas Seidl to spearhead operations on the Sauber side. Many declared their faith in this duo with Nico Hulkenberg admitting that he signed to race for Audi because of Seidl’s leadership.

However, this has not resulted in on-track results for Sauber this season. The Hinwil-based squad has fallen down the pecking order and is arguably the slowest on the grid. It seems that Audi bosses had lost confidence in Seidl and Hoffmann as the two have been removed entirely from the F1 project before the German carmaker even officially competed in a Grand Prix.

One could wonder if this was the right move. As manufacturers have a history of trying to run a team like a corporate and failing miserably, as was the case with Toyota. However, it might be that these sackings were needed to get the team back up to speed.

Ex-Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto to start a new era for Audi

Fans were shocked to hear Mattia Binotto‘s return to Formula 1. The former Ferrari boss will lead the F1 project alongside Audi’s top management. Binotto had a rough time leading Ferrari between 2019-2022. As the Scuderia lost the title in 2022 to Max Verstappen and Red Bull under his leadership.

Nevertheless, Mattia Binotto might be the right man for the job. The Italian could be the person who can finally convince Carlos Sainz to join Audi. Moreover, Binotto does know how to lead a works team and has vast experience on the technical side, something which the German carmaker does need.

However, it is clear that Audi will have to go through a major change in its structure under Binotto. Perhaps, this is the right time with 18 months to rebuild and develop, instead of waiting for a disastrous debut in 2026. Although, one thing is clear, the auto giant is in a state of crisis months before its machinery even hit the track.

In case you missed it:

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