Audi has confirmed their intentions to enter the F1 market as an engine manufacturer in 2026. During the 2022 Belgian Grand Prix weekend, Audi held a press conference, where they publicly announced the same, while also showcasing an Audi F1 show car.
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However, Audi CEO Markus Duesmann has now opened up regarding the pressure that surrounds the German giants to succeed.
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Despite the pressure, Audi expects to be “very competitive” within the time period of 3 years after entering the sport. That is quite an ambitious target for a newcomer in sport, regardless of whether it is from a team’s perspective or an engine manufacturer’s.
Although, Audi is not a rookie in the racing world. They have been strong contenders in racing events like sportscar racing and its signature event; the Le Mans 24 Hours. Additionally, they also plan on becoming an instant hit in Formula 1.
However, Audi will face some big difficulties if they don’t execute their plan properly. The Race wrote, “While Audi is entering under modified and less complex rules, and has a longer lead time than the Honda program that was fast-tracked for 2015, it is still on the backfoot compared to much more experienced opposition.”
They continued, “Now Audi’s finally coming to F1, the prospect of another strong manufacturer fighting at the front is realistic. But whether that’ll happen one year, three years, five years, or ever from the point of entry – nobody knows.”
Audi will not expect to win the first race they partake in. However, they are hopeful that the project will come to fruition within 3 years when they’ll start competing for race wins.
Mick Schumacher could be the first driver of the Audi F1 era
With rumors speculating about Audi joining hands with the Sauber (now Alfa Romeo), Mick Schumacher could well be the first driver of the Audi F1 era. Audi CEO Duesmann has previously mentioned that they will prefer fellow countrymen for their vacant seats.
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However, Audi is not willing to break the contracts of their current lineup of Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu. While the Chinese driver has not yet extended his contract, he is said to have impressed people at the Alfa Romeo team.
According to the GP blog, “Audi boss Markus Duesmann has already confirmed that there is a preference for a fellow countryman. F1 Insider has learned that Audi does not want just any German driver, but that they are interested in Schumacher.”
“The brand would prefer to put the Haas driver in the Sauber car (now Alfa Romeo) already next year.”
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It remains to be seen if Audi can be an instant hit or a hit at all. Publicly announcing their ambition is one thing, but whether they’ll be able to walk the walk is an entirely different scenario. Will Audi be able to challenge the ‘Big 3’ constructors in F1?
