F1 News: New Audi CEO Sets Record Straight For 2026 Entry

Audi's newly appointed CEO Gernot Dollner has confirmed the German brand's entry into Formula 1 for the first time after taking over the position this year from former boss Markus Duesmann.

Dollner took over the role of CEO in September, and since then, questions have been raised over Audi's F1 entry, especially as a result of a legal silence period for corporate boards lasting 100 days.

What added to the speculation were reports of the new boss being less enthusiastic about Formula 1. Not to forget the latest cost-cutting measures the brand has been undertaking across the organization. 

Though it was reported by Manager Magazin that Dollner was supportive of Audi's plans to join the F1 paddock in 2026 at a time when the new regulations are set to make major changes to the sport, confirmation from the CEO was the need of the hour to put all speculations to rest.

Fortunately, for all those waiting, Dollner has confirmed Audi's entry into Formula 1 in 2026. Speaking to Handelsblatt in an interview, he said:

“There is a clear decision from the board, from the supervisory boards of Audi and Volkswagen, that Audi will enter Formula 1 in 2026.

The plan is in place." 

The German brand is to take over the Sauber F1 team, which was known by the name Alfa Romeo this year. Early speculations of the team boss and the driver lineup have already been doing the rounds lately for 2026.

Rumors suggest ongoing talks with former Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto, who is being considered as the new team's principal. In addition, McLaren Racing driver Lando Norris is also being spoken about as the team's key driver for 2026 as well as Carlos Sainz and Nico Hulkenberg.

After much speculation and uncertainty, the Audi team boss's first public statement has put rest to all rumors about the manufacturer's F1 entry in 2026.