Audi’s Formula 1 project has been in the works for a long time, and their arrival on the grid is highly anticipated for 2026.
It took them a while to get there, but they finally secured a 100% stake in the Sauber team this year – a key step in their programme.
Since then, they have let go of former McLaren boss Andreas Seidl and replaced him with ex-Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto.
They’ve also signed two drivers on different ends of the spectrum, acquiring experience with Nico Hulkenberg, and potential with Gabriel Bortoleto.
Audi are ‘behind schedule’ in development of 2026 engine
Binotto knows a thing or two about engines, considering that he worked on them for such a long time at the Scuderia – dating back to the Michael Schumacher days.
However, it appears that the Audi team he now spearheads is facing some issues with the development of their power unit for the 2026 season.
The Objective now reports that the German manufacturer is looking to sell one-third of its stake in the £470 million team amid staffing issues.
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A lack of qualified staff is reportedly leading them to fall behind on its Formula 1 project and could stunt their progress.
It was hoped that for 2026, this team that has been towards the back of the grid for so long would finally be able to make a march through the field and to the front with new backing.
Did Hulkenberg and Bortoleto make the right decisions?
With all the uncertainty, you have to feel most sorry for their two new drivers – who were sold the promise that this team would be great with Audi backing.
For Hulkenberg, driving for a team from his home country would have been special, but now it seems he’s arriving at a bit of a mess for 2025.
Sauber hasn’t scored a point this season and desperately needs investment – it’s their only chance of ever fighting for points and maybe more.
READ MORE: George Russell tells Gabriel Bortoleto why Sauber move will be ‘good preparation’ after Williams spell
Bortoleto may never get a fair chance to prove himself if they cannot improve, but hope comes from the rumoured Qatari investment firm which may purchase part of Audi’s stake.
It would be no surprise to see them fund the team generously, given their expectation for success – much like McLaren were well-backed in the 2010s by the Middle East.
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