Formula 1's competitive landscape is set to undergo a seismic shift in 2026, as Audi is preparing to launch its full-fledged official team and that Cadillac contemplates its much-anticipated debut. According to le PDG d'Audi, Gernot DöllnerCadillac's entry into the sport not only highlights the growing appeal of Formula 1, but also reinforces the value of Audi's ambitious project.
The Power of a Growing F1 Grid
With Cadillac and General Motors competing for a place on the grid as 11th manufacturerDöllner believes their inclusion reflects the strength and appeal of Formula 1 as a global platform. The Cadillac project, supported by the billionaire Mark Walteris ready to bring new competition and innovation to the sport.
“It shows the strengths of Formula 1 and this platform, and it is a strong signal to have another OEM in the line,” Dollner said. “Competition is what we need, and it just adds value to our project. »
This competitive spirit is further strengthened by regulatory changes in 2026, which promise to level the playing field for new and existing teams. The arrival of Cadillac not only introduces a new American giant into the fray, but also raises the stakes for Audi as it re-establishes Sauber as a leading team under its banner.
Strategic Partnerships Driving Success
Audi's F1 ambitions have received a significant boost with the arrival of the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) as a key investor. This strategic alliance was finalized in November, bringing additional resources to Audi's Hinwil-based facility.
“We were approached by many investors, so we didn't really have to start a search,” Döllner revealed. “Qatar visited our Hinwil facility, the powertrain unit, and from what they saw there – the professionalism, the strategic vision, the organization – they were convinced. »
The QIA's investment reflects a trend seen across the F1 grid, where external funding plays a vital role in boosting a team's competitiveness. By securing such partnerships, Audi underlines its long-term commitment to Formula 1 and its goal of becoming a leading team.
The Cadillac Factor: Strengthening Audi's Vision
Cadillac's project does not represent a threat to Audi's ambitions, but rather strengthens the competitive environment in which Audi seeks to thrive. With Cadillac entering the fray, Audi sees an opportunity to refine its own performance and capitalize on the sport's prestige.
“At Audi the project is viewed positively anyway, and this just reinforces the message that we are truly committed to a long-term investment in Formula 1,” Döllner emphasized. “It’s a capital injection into the project, so it doesn’t reduce Audi’s commitment, it adds money to the project. »
The additional resources, coupled with the increasing depth of competition, reflect a thriving Formula 1 ecosystem where multiple original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) aim to challenge the dominance of established powers like Red Bull, Mercedes and Ferrari.
A battle for the future of F1
As Audi finalizes its preparations for its 2026 debut, the addition of Cadillac to the grid heralds a new chapter for Formula 1. The joint arrival of these global automotive giants not only raises the profile of the sport, but also sets the stage for an era of fierce competition.
With his settlement of Hinwilinnovative partnerships and a clear vision of success, Audi's project is ready to compete with the best. Meanwhile, Cadillac's entry, backed by Mark Walter's investment, ensures that the battle for supremacy in F1 will be more competitive than ever.
As Döllner summed it up well: “This is what Formula 1 needs: more competition, stronger teams and a clear commitment to the future. »
