Automaker Audi expressed its interest in entering F1 in 2026 way back in 2022. Since then, many more parties have come forward presenting a similar proposal. However, none have got the approval to join the grid. Audi has found its way through the Sauber group, though, currently competing as Alfa Romeo. The team has now come up with a tall claim, warning the reigning champions Red Bull, and others to be wary of them as the 2026 regulations could immediately tip the odds in their favor.

The German car manufacturer has established a factory in Neuberg for its F1 operations. Earlier this year, team CEO Adam Baker set up a relatively realistic goal for his team to compete for the glory in their 3rd year in the championship. He also talked about the need to have “a top engine” to achieve the feat. In a recent interview, he preponed that target to the first year, citing a big advantage over incumbent teams.

Motorsport Turkiye quoted him as saying, “Compared to other manufacturers that have joined Formula 1 in the last 20 years, we announced our plans quite early. Work on the project began in Neuburg in March 2022.” [Translated using Google]

“We are fully aware of the enormity of our mission, but our advantage is that we will start racing in Formula 1 in the first year of the new regulations.”

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Currently, the competing teams are coping with the regulations introduced by the FIA last year. The first year left most of them tackling the porpoising issue. In 2023, the biggest challenge is to close the gap with Red Bull who, until now, have shown no signs of weakness.

Audi CEO reveals why the teams that joined F1 in the recent past haven’t been successful

Each time the FIA introduces new regulations, teams scramble to find ways to gain an advantage for themselves. Such introduction of regulation changes acts as an opportunity for smaller teams to catch the big dogs by surprise. A team that enters the championship then can enjoy that advantage as well. However, they can be at a big disadvantage if they enter once the incumbent constructors have stabilized their projects after a while.

Baker continued, “In the past, new manufacturers entered the sport when the rules remained stable and therefore found themselves at a very disadvantage compared to teams that have been in the championship for a long time.”

“The changes planned for the engine and chassis in 2026 will be the most serious changes in recent history. So if we do a good job, we will have the opportunity to be competitive.” 

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Audi certainly is a respected brand worldwide. But will they be able to carry that reputation in the F1 grid? Let us know your thoughts.