Audi's Formula 1 project is aiming to secure its maiden grand prix victory before the team develops into a genuine championship contender, according to team leadership. The German manufacturer, which acquired the Sauber-operated squad for its 2026 entry, has outlined a phased approach to competitiveness in the sport's new regulatory era.
Speaking ahead of the team's formal debut, Audi F1 representatives indicated that the organization's initial focus will be on maximizing opportunities for race wins under the revised technical regulations set to take effect in 2026. The power unit changes, which include increased electrical deployment and sustainable fuel requirements, could create a more level playing field for new entrants.
The timeline suggests Audi expects to be competitive for individual race victories before mounting a sustained challenge for the constructors' or drivers' championships. This approach mirrors the development curves of other manufacturers who entered F1 in recent decades, where early wins preceded full title campaigns by several seasons.
Audi's preparation has included extensive power unit testing on dynos and the recruitment of key technical personnel from rival teams. The operation, based at Sauber's Hinwil facility in Switzerland, will run as a full works team with Audi designing and building its own power unit.
