For a few weeks now, Germany’s motorsport fans have been electrified by the news that two brands of the Volkswagen Group could make their way into Formula 1. Rumor has it that both Audi and Porsche are considering a commitment to the premier class from 2026, when there will be fundamentally new engine regulations. Audi board member Oliver Hoffmann has now given new fuel to these speculations.
The 44-year-old made no secret of the fact that Audi had big plans for the future in the wide world of motorsport: “We want to surprise people with our motorsport projects,” said the Audi brand’s Chief Development Officer. “Sport1“.
The company’s focus is currently on other racing series in which Audi is already involved and pursuing ambitious goals. Above all, endurance and rally racing series are meant, like the Dakar Rally at present.
“The Dakar makes sense for us as a brand because of the innovative and progressive drive concept. We drive long distances through the desert with electric motors and an energy converter. From 2023 we will be back at Le Mans,” said Hoffmann.
Audi rumors about joining McLaren
The premier class of motorsport has also become more and more interesting for Audi in recent years. At least since it became clear that from 2026 the drive units in Formula 1 will have to be supplied with up to 50 percent electrical energy. The cost cap for the designers has also made Formula 1 much more attractive for the entire Volkswagen Group because it is more predictable.
“We’ll see what else comes in the future. The FIA has made a few good decisions regarding the future of Formula 1, and last season was also very interesting,” said Audi board member Hoffmann.
According to consistent media reports, the VW Group is currently planning to buy some of its Audi brand from McLaren. The British racing team is currently being equipped with Mercedes engines.
The Porsche brand, on the other hand, is to cooperate with Red Bull and AlphaTauri, which are currently still purchasing drive units from the Japanese manufacturer Honda. These speculations have not yet been officially confirmed.
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