Audi says it organizes its involvement in Formula 1 in such a way that the Hinwil team retains independent control over decisions.
Alpine F1, the rival team owned by Renault, is encountering difficulties on track and even abandoning its factory engine program for 2026. The French and automotive giant’s open and clumsy involvement is clearly being blamed.
So now that Volkswagen Group’s Audi brand has fully acquired Swiss team Sauber for its own F1 effort from 2026, CEO Gernot Dollner (to the left of Mattia Binotto in the photo) says a structure is being put in place so that Audi F1 can operate with the speed and agility of an independent Formula 1 team.
"We obviously have an oversight board," Dollner responds. “But if a final decision becomes necessary, we will make it. I will make it.”
“But I don’t see the need for it. Rather, I think I’m overseeing the perfect connection between the Audi Group and the Formula 1 project.”
Dollner suggests he is well aware that many car manufacturers in the past, such as BMW and Toyota, were too involved in running their respective projects in F1.
“Even car manufacturers that have motorsport in their DNA should not get involved,” insists Dollner. “Because F1 is so different from a car manufacturer.”
“You just have to leave that to the experts.”
Indeed, former Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto has been installed as head of Audi F1 and will have the power to instantly make necessary decisions without interference or approval from the company.
“We are absolutely independent in the way we manage the project,” confirms Dollner, “and with the new configuration we have also improved it so that the Formula 1 project is fast and independent of any business processes.”
According to him, Audi officials will simply ensure that “this team, Mattia’s, can act quickly and autonomously.”
“We are fully aware that it is necessary to keep this project separate from the group. Only with regard to marketing, certain design aspects and sponsorship will we of course have a connection.”
“But otherwise, decisions will be made in Hinwil. This is our top priority.”
