The way for a possible Formula 1 entry of Audi and Porsche would be clear. On August 16, the FIA World Motor Sport Council passed the new engine regulations that will apply from 2026.
This is intended to “enable and make it attractive for newcomers to enter the sport at a competitive level”, as a core aspect was mentioned in the communication.
Among other things, the new regulations stipulate that the future hybrid engines will be operated with 100 percent sustainable fuel. The combustion engine in the unit should only contribute 50 percent of the power, the rest is electric. That fits with the future direction of the auto industry.
The specific details of the new regulations were repeatedly mentioned by the two Volkswagen subsidiaries Audi and Porsche as decisive for a possible entry into the top motorsport class.
According to reports, Porsche is about to enter into a partnership with the world champion team Red Bull led by superstar Max Verstappen. Audi was last linked with the takeover of Alfa Romeo, the former Sauber team.
The VW supervisory board has long since given the green light for the Formula 1 projects of Audi and Porsche. The two manufacturers are already developing corresponding engines, as the outgoing Volkswagen boss Herbert Diess admitted in May.