Audi will enter the Formula 1 grid in 2026 after buying out the Sauber group, racing as Alfa Romeo in F1. However, the deal has come under scrutiny recently because of rumors that Audi is rethinking its decision to enter the pinnacle of motorsport after changes in management at the top of the company.

Alfa Romeo’s team representative, Alessandro Alunni Bravi, was present at the FIA press conference on Friday and used the platform to reassure everyone that Audi has no qualms about its future with Sauber and is still completely committed to their Formula 1 project.

Audi has a strong commitment to Formula 1 and, of course, together with Sauber. This commitment comes from the decision not only of the board of Audi but also the advisory board of Audi and the supervisory board of Audi Volkswagen. 

Alessandro Alunni Bravi said, as reported by The Athletic.

Alunni Bravi attributed the lack of public communication to the existing deal between Sauber and Audi, as they aren’t able to discuss the plans of another manufacturer, and certain restrictions are imposed in the interest of team privacy.

Audi plans to join the grid in 2026 with at least one German driver, being a German manufacturer. There are currently two prime candidates for the spot, Mick Schumacher and the retired Sebastian Vettel. Vettel, as it stands, has left the sport for good, but Audi may try convincing the 4x World Champion to rejoin the grid, reminiscent of what Mercedes did with Michael Schumacher.

Sao Paulo presents opportunities for Alfa Romeo as they battle for 8th with Alpha Tauri

Interlagos has been a very competitive track in all its years of being on the Formula 1 calendar, and it looks promising to provide more excitement this year. As Lewis Hamilton fights Sergio Perez for 2nd in the Drivers’ Championship, Alfa Romeo is locked in a similar battle with Alpha Tauri for 8th place in the Constructors’.

Alpha Tauri earned six valuable points with Daniel Ricciardo in Mexico, but Alfa Romeo will be looking to outscore the Faenza team in Brazil. A sprint weekend, Brazil will offer more points than a normal weekend, and Sao Paulo is a track that has suited Alfa Romeo in the past. 

Valtteri Bottas said ahead of the weekend that Interlagos is a track that requires both the driver and the car to perform well, and that could open up doors for backmarker teams like Alfa Romeo to score points in the Grand Prix.

In case you missed it:

• Max Verstappen gives brutally honest opinion on Las Vegas GP, says it is ‘more of a show than racing’
• Helmut Marko reportedly rejected a rival F1 team offer that wanted information about Red Bull

Stay Updated!

Join our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and curated insights directly to your inbox.

Subscribe NOW