Audi has officially taken full control of the Sauber Formula 1 team, cementing its long-awaited entry into the sport ahead of the 2026 season. The German automaker's acquisition of Sauber Holding AG, worth around 600 million euros, marks a bold step into the pinnacle of motorsport and signals a new era for the Swiss-based team.
Audi's roadmap to F1 dominance
Originally planned as a 75% stake purchase, Audi revealed in March 2024 that it would instead purchase the entire Sauber operation. In January 2025, the deal was finalized, with Audi now owning 100% of Sauber Holding AG. This takeover aligns with regulatory changes coming in 2026, where Audi aims to establish itself as a formidable competitor in Formula 1.
An Audi spokesperson confirmed the milestone, saying:
“The closing was concluded in January, as planned. Audi is now the 100% owner of Sauber Holding AG, the team's parent company. »
The team's transformation is supported by a significant investment from the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), which acquired a 30% minority stake in Sauber Holding AG in November 2024, strengthening financial and strategic support for 'Audi.
Sauber's final season: a campaign of transition
Sauber's 2025 season, the last under its current name, will feature an entirely new driver line-up. Veteran Nico Hulkenberg brings experience, while reigning Formula 2 champion Gabriel Bortoleto injects youthful talent and potential.
Team principal Jonathan Wheatley, formerly Red Bull's sporting director, is set to play a key role in Audi's transition. Wheatley's arrival has been fast-tracked, with the experienced leader set to take the reins at the Japanese Grand Prix. Meanwhile, Sauber COO and CTO Mattia Binotto will oversee the team's operations at the Australian and Chinese Grands Prix.
-A Changing of the Guard: Alunni Bravi's Emotional Farewell
The departure of Alessandro Alunni Bravi, Sauber team representative and general manager, marks the end of an era. Having joined Sauber in 2017, Alunni Bravi has guided the team through difficult and transformative times, serving as its public face since Frederic Vasseur left for Ferrari in 2023.
Reflecting on her departure, Alunni Bravi said:
“This team is a family and has a bright future ahead of it. Since joining in 2017, I have seen this team grow and change beyond what anyone could have imagined. As I move on to a new project, I want to thank Finn Rausing and everyone who has placed so much trust and faith in me.”
Binotto praised Alunni Bravi's contributions, stating:
“Alessandro has played a wide range of roles within the team, leading it through difficult and exciting times. The entire company thanks him for his energy and contributions and wishes him the best for the future.”
Looking to the future in 2026
Audi's full takeover of Sauber sets the stage for its Formula 1 debut in 2026, with high aspirations to challenge the sport's traditional powerhouses. Armed with state-of-the-art facilities, substantial financial support and a clear vision for the future, Audi is preparing to make a significant impact under the new regulations.
The 2025 season will serve as a bridge to the Audi era, with Sauber aiming to close its chapter on a positive note while laying the foundations for its transformation into one of F1's most anticipated new challengers.
